SUPPORTERS are rallying to the cause of a Co Tyrone soccer club whose survival has been threatened by this week’s floods.
Ardstraw FC in Newtownstewart has launched a crowdfunding appeal after its ground at Vaughan’s Holm was devastated by flood water.
Established in 1972, the intermediate team is currently managed by former Northern Ireland player Ivan Sproule.
However, the club fears for its survival after flooding caused thousands of pounds worth of damage on Tuesday night.
A spokesman said as the full extent of the damage became clear, it was evident Ardstraw needed external support.
“We have been devastated by the unprecedented destruction suffered at the hands of Tuesday night’s storm," he said.
“Our perimeter fence has been ruined, our training pitch destroyed, our spectator fence damaged, our main pitch has been left saturated, our clubhouse has been flooded, ball stops flattened. Even our goal posts have been washed away.”
However, football fans have rallied to the cause and money is pouring in to help the stricken club.
Ardstraw set up a webpage appealing for help raise £8,000 needed to repair the damage and within hours almost half the amount was contributed.
Club supporter John Brannigan contributed £250.
He said: “It’s so hard to walk around the grounds to see the damage that all the club members and supporters have worked so hard to keep but we will come back again. Come on the bridge.”
Anyone wishing to donate can do so at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ardstrawfc.
