Chester and Darlington, emulating Telford’s lead, are participating in the National Lottery Weekend.
This program, honoring non-league soccer, granted over 100,000 supporters complimentary entry to see their local non-league sides – should they be fortunate enough to secure a ticket in the drawing.
Chester commended the assistance the National Lottery delivered during the COVID-19 crisis, wherein the group dispersed £12.5 million (US$16.7 million) to non-league organizations to offset the decline in game-day earnings.
Chester believed the post-pandemic revival was an ideal opportunity to reciprocate and concurrently express gratitude to lottery participants who aided non-league clubs through a challenging time.
Chester’s National Lottery Weekend match will occur at Deva Stadium on April 2nd at 3 pm.
Regarding Darlington, the ticket promotion will be valid for their contest versus Boston United on March 26th.
Darlington’s chief operating officer, David Johnston, remarked: “It was exceptional to have the backing of National Lottery players, helping us endure to a stage where fans could come back. This is a wonderful method to acknowledge that backing – and what clubs like ours signify to individuals – and give back by providing people a chance to encounter the distinct thrill of football at our level. We eagerly anticipate greeting everyone to our stadium.”
Ex-Scotland players Ally McCoist and Karen Carney are backing National Lottery Football Weekends, stressing the vital role of local football.
McCoist emphasized the pandemic’s effect on these smaller teams, stating, “They are incredibly important to countless individuals and suffered more than perhaps any other aspect of our sport during Covid. The financial aid from National Lottery participants was essential then, and now you can demonstrate your support once more, this time from the stands.”
Teams like Chester FC are delighted to have supporters back. Their vice-chairman, Jim Green, conveyed his appreciation, remarking, “National Lottery Football Weekends allow us to show gratitude to the most significant people at our club – the supporters.”
(For further information on AFC Telford’s participation in National Lottery Weekends, we featured their story previously.)
