SOCCER lads hope to be bang on target this season after receiving a boost from The Co-operative’s Community Fund.

The fund enabled Atherton Laburnum Rovers' under 10s side to purchase two sets of inflatable goals which have been used to put players through their paces as they prepare for the start of this year’s Bolton, Bury and District Junior League.

“This is a fantastic addition to the club’s equipment and has certainly helped train our juniors to a high standard," said LR's Carl Waldie.

Ellie Stitt, from The Co-operative Group’s Manchester Area Membership Committee explained: “The Community Fund can make a real and lasting contribution to local communities and the Atherton Laburnum Rovers Football Club Under 10s team is certainly a worthy cause.

“Many community groups share the same values as The Co-operative and could benefit from an award and we would certainly welcome their applications.”

The Community Fund offers grants of between £100 and £2,000 to community projects across the country. Local Co-operative members’ committees allocate awards based on a set of values and principles such as social responsibility and caring for others.

About £200,000 is available annually to support charities and community groups and application forms are available online at www.co-operative.coop/membership/Community-Fund or by phoning 0161 827 5879.