Paul Appeals for Donations to 'Amazing' Christmas Present Hand-out

Image credits: Manchester Central Flikr

With Manchester Central appealing for donations to help gift Christmas presents to the students at Seashell Trust Academy, we caught up with club chairman Paul McGuire for his thoughts on the the club's work in the community.

"I'm really proud of the work the club is doing in the community. For any club to have an impact in its local area is very important, but for a club of Manchester Central's size and status, it can be a little more difficult. But, I think it only shows how much our staff and players care, giving up their time to help other people."

Image credits: Manchester Central Flikr

"Our amateur status means we lack revenue streams to donate. Despite this, we have already received some very generous donations from a variety of stakeholders including players, staff and sponsors. For that, we are very thankful - as is Seashell Trust. However, there is more to do."

"I like to think that we can be central to our community, that we think about the wider issues and challenges away from the pitch. I think that it is amazing that a local amateur club is doing things that professional clubs' multi-million-pound foundations or national charities do. It reflects well on the team we have working behind the scenes, it's very impressive."

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"I also have a lot of praise for the staff at Seashell Trust, who have been really welcoming and helpful. They've helped us create a list of presents for the students that best meet their desires and needs, and hopefully they'll enjoy the day along with the students."

"Hopefully this is just the start of our 'Central to the Community' scheme. As long as we are around I hope that the club will be doing this type of work. We have done similar things in the past, such as Rory's 'Brave the Shave' fundraiser for Macmillan, so some of us are quite experienced in the area and I think we all really enjoy this side of things."

Manchester Central media-man, Rory Curran, 'Braved the Shave' for Macmillan in November.

Image credits: Manchester Central Flikr

"However, as for who is going to wear the Santa outfit - me or Chris - we haven't worked that one out yet!"

"If you can donate, please do. We really appreciate a contribution of any size. But also, please help to share our fundraiser - we know its a tight time financially for many families, especially with the cost of living crisis at the moment, but it is a good cause. Any funds raised above the target will be split between Seashell Trust and South Manchester Food Bank, hopefully to help others in the community to enjoy their Christmas."