Westbury United FC have made an emotional return to Platinum Hyundai Park, Meadow Lane, as they hosted their first home games since 18th January.
After weeks of playing their matches at Frome Town’s ground due to a financial crisis that left them unable to pay a £36,000 electricity bill, the club was finally able to welcome supporters back home with back-to-back games, following the successful installation of a generator, financed by one of the club’s supporters
First up, a crowd of 328 enthusiastic fans turned out for a game against league leaders Yate Town on Tuesday 18th March, and although the game ended in disappointment with an injury-time winner for the visitors, the club was celebrating its return home. It was made possible thanks to the generosity of ardent supporter Jim Avis, who covered the cost of hiring the generator, and to the hard work of volunteers and club officials.
“It was fantastic to be home,” said the club trustees. “After completing all the testing with our generator, we had the approval from the Southern League, and it was great to be back playing in Westbury in front of a big crowd. We received messages of well done and thanks from a large number of supporters, and it was nice to see familiar faces who were unable to get to the games at Frome back enjoying their football.
“Although the return home was a success, we did have an interesting experience when with 20 minutes to go, the floodlights failed. However, with the help of our electrician, Matt Galpin, and the assistance of supporters, they were back on within 10 minutes. During this period, there was a wonderful light show of mobile phones.
“The game resumed but unfortunately, our visitors scored in the 95th minute to win the game 2-1. Despite the result, everyone agreed it was great to be back home, and the evening was a big success.”
United followed up their homecoming match with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Falmouth Town on Saturday, March 22nd. A double from Ben Starr sealed the three points.
“Our first win since returning home was a special moment in front of our own supporters,” said the trustees. “Also, it was the second time in a week with over 300 in attendance so that is fantastic news for the club.
“A big thank you from the trustees, committee, managers and players for the great support we are receiving. Plus, a big thank you to Jim, who helped make this possible by paying for the hire of the generator, and to everyone else who has supported us over the past few weeks.
“Although we are back at Platinum Hyundai Park, we have to remind everyone that we are still raising funds to clear our outstanding electricity bill and if you are interested in helping, we have our Supporters Trust Fund and JustGiving page so if you wish to donate.”
To donate, email supporterstrust@westburyunited.co.uk or visit the JustGiving page – https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/wufc-supporters
Pictured: United players celebrate – with their own fans – in the 2-1 victory over Falmouth, Picture by: Martin Pearce
