YOUNG players have launched a plea for donors to help raise £20,000 before September 12 to secure Northwich Basketball Club a permanent quality home to play the sport.

The volunteer-run club desperately needs funds to refurbish Rudheath Leisure Centre's sports hall to offer training and league games for people of all ages from across the county.

Basketball England and Sport England have pledged sizeable grants but only if Northwich Basketball Club manages to first raise £20,000.

If the club hits the target, it will be able to offer its players and the wider community access to the sports hall for at least 30 hours per week, additional training sessions for multiple age groups, specialist shooting sessions, sport development courses and secure homework areas for students.

If the club fails to reach the £20,000 by September 12, then it forfeits its grants from Basketball England and Sport England.

“We know times are tough, but if people or local businesses can spare a few quid it will make a real difference and allow us to help local kids do what they love – play basketball, ” said Northwich Basketball Club head coach Tom Shubrook.

He has worked with players, coaches and venues across the north west for more than a decade to improve the quality of basketball facilities.

Shubrook currently also leads the basketball programme at Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College and mentors students as referees and coaches.

“We are a community club, run by volunteers. If the community can support us, it will help us support children's passion for the sport and hopefully lay the groundwork for future British sporting success,” said Shubrook.

More than 300 children are registered at Northwich Basketball Club, which is dedicated to supporting youngsters in the local community with a passion for the sport, as well as helping their social, health and educational development off the court.

"This would give us the chance to get even more girls and women playing a fantastic sport," said Lauren Quigley, head coach of the women's and girls' section of the club.

Some businesses have already backed the fundraising appeal through offering rewards.

BTB Fitness have donated memberships and PT training sessions to the crowdfund scheme.

“Dozens of kids from around here go to the club. It is a safe place for them to have fun, to play competitive sport and be in a safe environment. Everyone should support it,” said BTB Fitness owner Andre Travis.

Professional player Jamal Tahraoui is offering personal coaching sessions as part of the appeal.

“Northwich gave me the opportunity to pursue my love for the game which ended up in a full athletic scholarship, degree and the opportunity to play professional at a high level! I’ll forever be in debt,” he said.

The club urge all of their supporters, friends and family to share their fundraising appeal and donate if possible.

People can donate to the club by going to https://bit.ly/NBCFund