Charity and community groups in Whitchurch are celebrating after they received donations from a former football initiative last month.

Whitchurch Town 94, which was founded by Thomas Ellison in 1994, made the donations to the groups in Whitchurch’s White Bear pub, in the High Street.

Whitchurch 94 was initially going to be a football team, with a pitch and clubhouse for Whitchurch youth and play in the Shropshire League.

Over many years Thomas – known as Tom – raised funds through bingo and a 100 Club but unfortunately due to life events the goals set in the early years did not reach fruition.

But following due process over a period of time, the trustees have now been able to donate all the funds raised across the Whitchurch area communities.

Representatives from the organisations attended a presentation on August 3 and Cecilia Gockelen, from Whitchurch 94, said the event went well.

“As trustees we are all delighted and proud to be able to support the local area and create opportunities of many forms for the youth and wider community going forward,” she said.

“Tom has always been very much a Whitchurch man, however, although a man of few words he would be delighted with the outcome.”

The beneficiaries were: Sir John Talbots Community and Leisure Centre; Whitchurch Alport Juniors FC; Bradbury Day Care Centre; Whitchurch Rotary Club; Prees FC Juniors; The Red House; Whitchurch RAF cadets 79 Squadron and Whitchurch Army Cadets.

The Whitchurch British Legion, North Shropshire Bowling Association, Prees Girl Guides, the Beechtree Centre, Blackberry Fair, Whitchurch Senior Club, Queensway Playing Fields Association and Whitchurch Cricket Club also all received donation, among others.

BELOW: Beneficiaries of the Whitchurch 94 donations