A COMMUNITY football club in Pontypool has received a boost of £1,000, half of which came from a special pot created to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Melin Homes’s operation.

Tranch AFC inherited a run-down building and pitch from Torfaen Council three years ago.

Since then, the club has been fundraising tirelessly to build an extension and utilise the great space for the wider community.

Pulling together a team of volunteers the group had the foundations of an extension built.

However, funds were running out and despite appeals for help the group were running out of options.

The club applied to Melin Homes community fund and were awarded £500 from the Jump 2 fund and £500 from the special Melin 10 fund, which is only available this year to mark the decade since the housing association was launched.

Trish Hoddinott, from the sustainability team at Melin Homes said “We were so glad we could help. The funding has made a huge difference to the club and the homes in the surrounding area.

“We have three estates who will be able to use this great facility Avalon Court, St Dominic’s Retreat and School Close.”

Committee member Neil Worwood said; “This project has a special place in my heart, we play matches every week and are already planning a grand opening of the new club house for next spring.

“Our thanks goes out to Melin Homes, and the staff who have supported us so much.”

Paula Kennedy, the chief executive at Melin Homes said “To be able to help support such an important project is very important to us.

“We’re not just a provider of affordable homes, we ensure that we help people and that communities thrive.”

Melin Homes sustainability team stepped in and helped Tranch AFC apply to their community grant fund, they coordinated the community benefit project and enlisted the help of Robert Price, Cwmbran who jumped at the chance to supply some materials for the roof.

The funds from Melin have allowed the volunteering team to make the new club house water tight before winter sets in.

To support Tranch AFC or want to use their facilities call 01633 862800.