Member Article

AFC Darwen scores in Buildbase £100k Transfer Deal

AFC Darwen has won £25,000 worth of building materials for club improvements after taking part in the first round of the Buildbase £100k Transfer Deal 2019.

The renovation programme for clubs playing in the Buildbase FA Trophy or Buildbase FA Vase competitions saw AFC Darwen successfully pitch its project against five other finalists at an event held at Wembley Stadium connected by EE.

The judging panel from Buildbase and The FA selected Darwen AFC because the bursary will enable the club to upgrade and improve its changing rooms to create new opportunities in the community such as developing women’s football and local BTEC Sport Programmes.

The Lancashire club came out on top with Tadcaster Albion FC, which also won a £25,000 product bursary that includes building, electrical and hire products. AFC Darwen will be working with Buildbase Preston to progress its project.

Dr Mike Vizzard, Commercial Manager at AFC Darwen said: “This means everything to us. We are now able to take the club to the next level to enhance the opportunities for the people of Darwen. We have already started to talk to Buildbase in Preston about the materials we need and are confident that their knowledge can guide us.”

Ian McConville, Procurement Director at Buildbase said: “AFC Darwen is steeped in heritage. They told us stories of when they were at the top of their game dating right back to the 1870s, but right now they are in need of some pressing changes to their facilities which are limiting their potential.

“Our £100k Transfer Deal is brilliant for grassroots football, the clubs, volunteers, players and fans. When you see the extent of time and commitment volunteers give up, we’re very proud to do as much as we can to help these clubs locally.”

The Buildbase renovation programme has been running since the builders’ merchant became the title sponsor of the FA Trophy and Vase in 2016. So far, building materials worth up to £200,000 has been given away. Previous winners include Hanwell Town, Cleethorpes Town, Cheadle Town and Needham Market.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Buildbase .