Community Spirit Finalist: Netherseal YFC, Leicestershire & Rutland
With a large club of 90 members, Netherseal YFC started the year wanting to boost its fundraising efforts while involving everyone in the activities.
With two charities they were keen to raise money for – Chron’s and Colitis UK and The Charles Kinston Trust – the club got stuck into a year of giving.
From food bank donations to festive tractor runs, they were never in short supply of ideas to raise much-needed funds for two causes close to their hearts.
Charles Kinston is a former Chair of the club who tragically lost his life in 2024. The club support the Trust that was set up with the purpose of raising funds to support local charities that align with Charles’ beliefs.
A successful tractor run, involving 115 festively decorated tractors, raised more than £10,000 and a charity rugby match brought in just under £6,000, with more than £3,500 invested back into equipment for the local rugby club.
"The local Rugby club has benefitted from the money fundraised to help continue to create better quality facilities and equipment for the future of the club," said Club Chair Joe Hilyer, who also plays for the rugby team.
While Netherseal YFC was driven by an ambition to raise money for charities – the committee found their efforts were uniting their club and the community. A Christmas nativity and carol service at the local church attracted 200 people from the local area.
“A lot of people came, such as parents, who have never been involved with the club. There were a lot of local people chatting to us and I think it gave everyone a glimmer of hope,” said Joe who helped to organise the event.
“The church usually only gets about eight people on a Sunday, but it was packed for our festive event. The money we raised didn’t matter as much as the buzz it gave people from being involved.”
Their community outreach has included a litter pick around the local area – something that many of their members supported in their high vis Netherseal jackets, promoting the good work YFC does.
“We saw a lot of people who stopped to thank us for doing it,” said Club Secretary Laura Davies. “It was a really nice morning to spend with all our members, especially our younger members.”
They also held a charity duck race, climbed the Yorkshire Peaks, held a Tug of War match and are focused on installing a defibrillator in the village hall.
The club admit they definitely went up a gear with their fundraising efforts – hauling in over £32,000 for charities. But the sense of wellbeing for the club has been even greater.
“The main thing was to create a family and make sure everyone was involved,” said Joe. “We made sure we focused on what the younger ones and the older ones wanted.
“The fundraisers we hosted during the dark months of the year allowed for social interactions in a time where people can sometimes feel alone. Many people commented on how well attended the events were with smiles all round.”
