WEY Valley Youth Football Club held its first ever family open day last Saturday.

Organisers said they were overwhelmed by the support of residents and businesses, and from event sponsor Whitehill Town Council.

The atmosphere was a far cry from the start of the year when there had been concern that the youth football club may need to close after 60 years due to a lack of volunteers.

However, players’ parents rallied round and set up a new management team to keep it going.

Volunteer Sarah Hamilton said: “The aim of the day was to make local families aware that Wey Valley Youth Football Club is going from strength to strength and to invite children in the area to join the club.

“It also helps to raise vital funds to keep the club going. We had such great support from the local residents and businesses that we are hoping to make this an annual event for the community.”

The youth football club caters for children aged four to 16. E-mail [email protected] for details.