MELKSHAM Town FC chairman Darren Perrin has thanked the local community and supporters for helping to keep the football club afloat during the Covid-19 coronavirus lockdown.

The club's black and yellow army of supporters came to the rescue when its management team appealed for cash to help fund the club's running costs and pitch renovations.

The club's general manager Darren Perrin launched the crowdfunding appeal a month ago after income dried up in mid-March.

So far, the appeal has raised £9,908 from 229 supporters after the club's management committee set a £8,000 target.

Mr Perrin said: "We are absolutely astounded and shellshocked by the generosity of the local community and supporters of the club.

"The support of the Melksham community and supporters has been remarkable and just shows what a close-knit community we have."

Mr Perrin said the club - formed in 1876 - was facing possibly the most serious threat to its existence in its 144-year history.

"We have probably never seen such a threat to our existence as we do now.

"We pride ourselves as a family and community club and we are always indebted to our supporters at all times.

"Since the middle of March, we have had no income coming into the club whatsoever due to no matches being played.

"All bookings and functions have been cancelled and we have also had to furlough our three paid staff, including myself.

"With the fantastic facility that we have got, there are a lot of overheads and utility bills that still need to paid.

"Through the efforts of our voluntary ground staff, we have got arguably the best playing surface in the league and we are desperate to maintain this for the upcoming 2020/2021 season and also to get some work completed on the youth pitches if possible."

The club had asked for donations to help meet its running costs and to re-seed, fertilise and drain some of the 14 pitches attached to its facilities at the InfiLED Stadium in Melksham.

Mr Perrin added: "With there being no end to the current situation, the outlook is very concerning but with everyone rallying around and supporting this cause, we will come out of this a stronger club.

"Once the season is up and running, we will be looking in some capacity to thank all of our supporters, sponsors, players, volunteers and staff with some sort of event."

To donate, go to https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/blackandyellowfamily