Money seized from criminals is buying our new equipment
Merseyside Police chose the club as December's featured charity for Operation Payback, presenting a cheque for £2,297.95.
Operation Payback is a partnership between Merseyside Police and Liverpool Crown Court that turns cash confiscated from drug dealers into funding for local charities and voluntary groups. In December the club was chosen as the featured charity, and officers presented us with a cheque for £2,297.95.
Cheshire Constabulary is providing a further £885.50 towards the same work.
The money is going on replacing old equipment — the balls, bibs, goals and first aid kits that get used every week and eventually wear out. It is exactly the sort of cost that never makes it into a fundraising appeal but has to be met all the same.
What the police said
Sgt Paul Doran, who presented the cheque, said the club is “a brilliant example of local people working together to help young people develop essential skills”.
He singled out the girls' section: “Their growing girls' team is fantastic — it challenges gender stereotypes, promotes equality, and creates visible female role models. I've no doubt this club has transformed lives, and so this funding will hopefully set many young people on a pathway to success.”
What we said
Paul Wood, Club Leader, said: “I believe that sport transforms lives, it helps to build stronger, more resilient communities, it teaches discipline, teamwork and communication skills, all of which are essential to get on in the world.
“The ongoing work of this club and its success is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved, and it shows the positive impact local initiatives can have, creating opportunities, promoting health, and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
“We are extremely thankful to Operation Payback for the money we have received, it will be put to good use replacing old equipment and will help us to continue providing the best quality service to the young members of our club.”
Why the club qualified
West Kirby United is a registered Wirral charity. Merseyside Police recognised the club for improving health through football and fitness, building life skills such as teamwork, discipline and responsibility, supporting mental wellbeing by creating safe spaces, and fostering inclusion across the community.
None of that happens without the volunteers who run the teams, organise the events and keep the whole thing going week after week.