THE secretary of Leigh Athletic FC says he can’t wait to see the look on our player’s faces after investment from The FA secured the club’s long-term future.

Leigh Athletic FC has been awarded a grant from The FA’s Stay in the Game scheme to help aid the club’s retention of its adult male players, giving them the financial support to cover the costs incurred by grassroots clubs.

The Stay in the Game scheme is funded by The FA and delivered by the Football Foundation, with grants of £750 awarded to existing clubs in order to boost financial sustainability and allow clubs to continue offering playing opportunities in organised football.

The grants can be used towards matchday and league affiliation costs.

Rob Atherton, Secretary, said: “This grant at such a critically important start to the season date is a huge boost to our income and cash flow and helps us cover significant costs that have to be paid to get the club in operation for the new season.”