Chester FC thanks National Lottery players for their support

Chester Football Club would like to thank National Lottery players for their support during these challenging times.

We’re grateful to benefit from a share of the £10M of funding that has been announced for 66 National League clubs as part of a unique partnership between the National League and The National Lottery which will ensure that this season can continue.

Chester FC plays an important role in our community with a successful academy from U9s to U18s providing a pathway for local talent, a growing women and girls section with over 100 players and an award-winning Community Trust that engages with hundreds of people every week and delivers a range of projects, including walking football, mental health football and support for schools.

CFU Chair Andrew Morris said: “We would like to thank the National Lottery players for their support in these challenging times.

“This helps support the vital work we do in Chester. We are proud to serve our communities and of the difference our club makes to the lives of people in Chester.

“This has been particularly evident during the pandemic with our Community Trust and wonderful volunteers stepping up to help those in need.

“Protecting this, and the work of the other National League clubs, is essential for communities across the country.”

The partnership with The National Lottery will benefit all clubs in the fifth and six tiers of English football, so that they can continue to play behind closed doors after the return of fans was paused due to rising infection rates.

As a thank you, National Lottery players, who make a difference every time they buy a ticket, will also get a range of benefits – including free tickets once stadia are safe to reopen, grassroots football opportunities and VIP experiences at Wembley Stadium.

Nigel Railton, Chief Executive of National Lottery operator Camelot, said: “The National Lottery and its players have been making a huge difference to communities across the country for the past 26 years, so we’re delighted to be working with the National League to protect these all-important clubs and help them continue the vital work they carry out locally.

“They do a fantastic job, and I can’t wait to cheer on my local National League side when fans are allowed to return.”