Hartlepool United 'budget booster' sees £6,000 raised in first few days as hundreds of fans donate

So far 193 Pools fans have made a contribution to the pot, which has an initial target of £30,000.

The aim of the new initiative is to help boost Pools’ budget through the coronavirus pandemic and into the 2020-21 season and help top up boss Dave Challinor’s playing budget for next season.

Several fans have donated three-figure sums to the gofundme page with fans of all ages making a contribution.

Pools fan Gary White has helped set it up and there are plenty of incentives to get fans involved.

A Pools statement read: “The club has been inundated with requests as to how Pools fans can assist with the current challenges we face and now we are humbled again by the launch of a fundraiser designed to boost Dave Challinor's playing budget next season.

“All funds will be directed towards the playing budget.”

Pools fan Gary said: “I think Pools fans will agree, we hadn’t experienced much positivity or optimism until Challinor came through the door.

“He not only has the backing of the players but the fans too and we want the full town to back him.

“Donate to the Pools Budget Booster and help him in the transfer market, so when we can finally pack the Vic, we have a team ready to take us back to the Football League.”

If you would like to make a contribution visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/pools-budget-booster