Club scores as fundraising starts

Former referee David Elleray kicked off fundraising at the club

An appeal to raise nearly £50,000 to keep Dover Athletic Football Club in business has got off to a good start.

Pledges and donations adding up to £10,000 were received in the first week by the Ryman Premier Club.

It was hit by an unexpected £25,000 VAT bill for hot food sold at the Crabble Athletic Ground. Creditors also want a large payment it did not budget for.

"Most of that has come from individuals who have donated sums from £20 to £1,000," said chairman Mick Kemp.

VAT judgement

"It is very encouraging to see the general public coming to our rescue."

The club must find £48,000 by the end of December or it could go under.

Other clubs across the UK, who may also be affected, have contacted Dover about the VAT judgement.

Fundraising kicked off last Thursday, when former referee David Ellery spoke at the club.