ILKLEY Town AFC and Addingham FC have each been awarded a £750 grant from The FA’s Stay in the Game scheme to aid in the retention of adult male players and help cover costs incurred by grassroots clubs.

The grants, funded by The FA and delivered by the Football Foundation, can be used towards matchday and training facility hire and league affiliation costs as well as covering match day subs for individuals that aren’t able to afford their regular match fees.

Ilkley chairman Richard Giles said: “We’re hugely thankful to the Football Foundation for recognising our commitment to organised, adult football and supporting us with a Stay in the Game grant. This will help us increase opportunities locally and help us to develop the adult section of the club.”

Addingham secretary Penny Hunt said:“It’s very good news. As a non profit, self-funding organisation the investment will help the club’s short-term financial stability.

“The club’s running costs include annual rental to Addingham Parish Council for the use of our football pitch and pavilion, and for a weekly training slot on the artificial turf pitch at Ben Rhydding Sports Club. These overheads are primarily paid for by the players themselves through signing on fees.

“This financial boost will enable the football club to continue to operate with confidence into the future and therefore retain 11-a-side adult male football within the village.”