THE Friends of Tottington Library said they were “very grateful” as they received a cheque for £500 from Walshaw Sports Club.

The community group was set up to keep the library in Market Street open and running after council funding is withdrawn later this year.

Chairman of Walshaw Sports Club, Steve Hunt, said: “Walshaw Sports Club is delighted to be able to support the library fund and look forward to holding fundraising events at our club to help the Library to remain open.”

In addition to the donation, the sports club, in Sycamore Road, has volunteered to host a special ‘Lancashire Night’ fundraiser for the group on Friday, November 3.

The night will feature entertainment and a ‘Name the Ferret’ competition.

Treasurer of The Friends of Tottington Library, David Conway, said: “We are very grateful for this donation, all monies donated will be spent wisely to keep the library open to benefit local residents.”

Cllr Yvonne Wright added: “It is fantastic support from the club.

“They are a great community facility themselves and they recognise the value of the library which is another great facility.

“It is a case of one local group helping another.

“It is a very generous donation and we are absolutely delighted.”