Kind-hearted Hartlepool United fans help raise funds to treat NHS staff when the football returns

Supporters group, the South East Poolies, are raising funds to buy a hospitality box package to treat local NHS staff when the football does resume at Victoria Park as a thank you for their ongoing efforts in helping to fight the disease which has claimed thousands of lives nationally.

All football is currently suspended with National League clubs voting on how to end the 2019-20 campaign.

But when football does return, the supporters’ group wanted a way of helping to show their thanks to the NHS staff and so far £750 has been raised which means the first box is paid for with efforts now moving on to help fund a second box.

A statement from South East Poolies read: “A huge thank you to those who have helped and after a busy couple of days we now have now raised a fantastic £750.

“This means the first box is paid for and 10 NHS Heroes will be getting the VIP Box treatment at a Pools home game!

“As each box costs £650 this means that we also have £100 towards a second box.

“The aim now is to raise the funds for this so that another 10 NHS Heroes will be given a huge thank you from Poolies.”

The fundraising drive will also help support the club too at a time when income from matchday gate receipts and hospitality has temporarily halted.

The South East Poolies added: “One thing that has become apparent is that clubs at all levels are facing significant shortfalls in revenue streams, including season tickets and commercial income.

“Donations are great, but they really are a very short-term fix and won’t help to address the impending recession that is likely to follow this period.

“As a branch we are setting up a page where donations can be made to purchase a hospitality box for a game.

“The box will be for the use of local NHS staff as a thank you for everything they have done during the coronavirus outbreak.

“We are very aware that there are many other heroes who are at risk in front facing roles including, but not exclusively; police, care homes, prisons, border force, supermarket staff, pharmacies, the list really is endless.

“However this will be reserved for the heroes of the NHS, ensuring that they will have a day to remember as a thank you, whilst at the same time helping the club financially.”

The hospitality package includes hospitality for 10 people, a pre-match meal, refreshments at half-time and full-time, a programme and seats in the CK Stand.

Those who would like to help donate can do so by clicking here or visit the South East Poolies on Facebook.