COMMUNITY spirit is coming to the rescue of Radcliffe Borough FC.

Fans are digging deep to help the club get back on its feet after a blaze caused by arsonists tore through the main stand a week ago on Sunday.

The club has been devastated to learn that clean-up costs alone are estimated to be in the region of £15,000.

A Justgiving Page has already raised £1,264 towards at £5,000 target to help the club following the devastating fire.

Paul Hilton, chairman, said: "The money being donated is fantastic, we did not expect it to escalate it so quickly. The community has really got behind us, it is overwhelming."

He added: "The quote we have received for the clean-up alone is £15,000, that does not include rebuilding, replacing the seating or the labour costs."

Money raised will be invested in the club and meet any shortfall in the insurance payout.

The fire broke out at around 7.30pm on December 4 at the ground off Pilkington Road, Radcliffe.

Three fire engines were mobilised to the club with crews managing to stop the fire from destroying the whole of the main stand.

The blaze which is believed to have been started in the press box, which was completely destroyed, spread to the PA system room and to the outdoor seating.

The fire damaged more than a third of the main stand.

As the police investigation continues, the club is determined to look to the future.

Radcliffe Borough social media hashtag and mantra is #wepoweron.

This week, the club celebrated the opening of a new stand, which was developed thanks to the generosity of a business.

Mr Hilton said: "Part of my remit as chairman is to move the club forward, and our motto is wepoweron.

"Donations will be a major help to the club."

To donate visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dean-warwick-2

A police investigation is now underway and people with any information on those responsible are urged to contact officers on 101 quoting incident number 2056 of 4th December 2016.

n To find out why Radcliffe Borough is made of stronger stuff turn to page five.