Fresh appeal to fund floodlights

Although the new lights have been budgeted for and at least 50 per cent of the £50,000 cost is expected to be covered by a grant, the Gladiators are looking for donations to help cover a £20,000 shortfall.

Supporters, who've already raised £10,000 towards the costs, will see the new floodlights and goalposts for the first time on Thursday night (July 6) when Craig Hopkins and Glenn Kirkwood send their side out against Chesterfield at the Autoworld Arena.

In an appeal for fresh donations, the Matlock chairman told fans and local businesses that every penny raised will help to protect their playing budget for the 2017-18 EVO-STIK League Premier season.

Wright said: “We need to raise around £50,000 to fund the floodlights. We hope to get a grant of 50 per cent of the cost and donations up to date amount to £10,000 which leaves us with a shortfall of £20,000. We can cover this amount but it could impact on the playing budget so any contribution would be gratefully received no matter how small.”

For more information on making a donation email the Matlock Town chairman at tom.116@hotmail.co.uk. Alternatively, potential donors can contact any committee member or the club via its various social media channels.

Joint manager Kirkwood has also been praising the work going on behind the scenes in preparation for the big kick off to the new campaign on Saturday 12 August.

“We believe we’re at a club that wants to go places," he told fans this week. "The work that goes on behind the scenes on the pitch, on the ground and in general is tremendous and it’s something we can use in selling the club to potential new players."

He added: "Everything looks to be geared up for a good season and we’ll be doing all we can to ensure that’s the case.”

Images courtesy of @Matlock_TownFC ‏

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