A FOOTBALL club is calling on the community to support its bid to revamp its facilities.

Nelson FC have aspirations for their ground at Victoria Park in Lomeshaye Way to become a community sports hub, complete with a new clubhouse.

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The club have applied to the Buildbase Club Renovation Programme, which launched this year, and is open to teams entering The Buildbase FA Trophy and Vase competitions.

Up to £100,000 worth of building materials, electrical products and hire equipment will be given to two clubs this year.

Adam Keizer, the club’s chief executive for the past three years, said: “Our clubhouse is more than 50 years old, is too small and no longer fit for purpose.

“We would like to build a new clubhouse, which would cost around £150,000 to ensure the club has up to date facilities and to improve our financial sustainability. We’ve been growing our Nelson Juniors over the past 12 months and should have a full set of junior teams by the summer.

“We also run a community academy for local children every Saturday in partnership with Nelson Town Council, we have an after school programme at Barrowford School and have introduced a new ladies team this season.

“I’m led to believe the clubhouse was actually moved here when we relocated grounds from Seedhill in the 1970s.

“We can’t prepare fresh food as the kitchen area is too small and can’t host many functions or events beyond matchdays.

“A new building would allow us to host birthday parties and other functions and increase the revenue we can make on matchdays plus improve the matchday experience for our supporters.

“We often get requests to host birthday parties and other functions but have to turn them down.

“A new clubhouse would secure the future of the football club and ensure we remain financially self sustainable.”

To help the club stand a better chance of being awarded Buildbase’s product bursary, fans can register their support at www.buildbase.co.uk/pitch-in-your-support and also tweet using #BuildbaseRenovation.

Kate Tinsley, CEO of Buildbase, said: “Teams such as Nelson are an integral part of their communities.

“In partnership with the FA we will select the most worthy causes.”