Fire-Damaged Football Club Appeals for Support Ahead of Festive Match

A football team, whose home ground sustained fire damage shortly after their promotion, has issued a plea for assistance to prepare it for an upcoming festive fixture. Thorne Colliery’s premises, located in Doncaster, suffered damage from a fire on 10 May, leading to the condemnation of its clubhouse and preventing the club from hosting home matches since October. Although temporary structures have been erected, the club stated a requirement to secure £30,000 to convert these into changing rooms prior to their game against Armthorpe on 28 December. James O’Neill, the first team manager, expressed his hope that fans would “come out in their numbers” to contribute their time or materials, enabling the club to be prepared for its Christmas fixture. Mr. O’Neill recounted that the team had celebrated their promotion to Division One of the North East Counties League merely six days before the fire incident. He stated: “We lifted the trophy – the first time the club’s won the league in almost 40 years – then, unfortunately, our changing rooms were set on fire.” He added: “Ever since then, it’s been such a challenging time for the people at the club just to keep the club alive.” According to Mr. O’Neill, despite the significant damage caused by the fire, the changing rooms at the site remained functional until the structure received a full condemnation in October. Members of the club voiced concerns that Thorne Colliery might face expulsion from the league if the facilities are not repaired. Cian Stringer, the club’s development officer, commented that such an outcome would represent more than just the forfeiture of a century of footballing heritage. He elaborated: “It’s like the heart in the community. We have a massive junior section, with hundreds of player involved.” He further noted that home matches typically draw between 200 and 300 attendees, and it “brings everyone together.” He concluded: “Everyone can have a drink and speak to each other. So it’s really important to the community here.” The club has initiated a fundraising campaign, calling on individuals to assist in converting the newly installed cabins at the ground, ensuring their readiness for the post-Christmas match. Mr. O’Neill described the undertaking as a “big project” and emphasized the club’s need for assistance. He stated: “We have a wonderful group of people who already work hard at the club as volunteers, and a good group of supporters.” He continued: “We would love them to come out in their numbers, whether they can give up some time or support us in donating materials.” He added: “We’re just all working hard and if people can in any way, shape or form give us that support, it would be really appreciated.” South Yorkshire Police reported that two boys, aged 15 and 16, along with a 19-year-old man, were arrested and subsequently bailed regarding the fire at the club in May. Highlights from South Yorkshire are available on BBC Sounds, and the latest episode of Look North can be accessed. The public is also invited to submit stories for potential coverage. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.