A CREWE-BASED insurance firm has been thanked for helping out one of South Cheshire's non-league football clubs stay afloat during the pandemic.

The County Group is a long-standing sponsor of Nantwich Town, which has resumed some of its activities in line with the easing of restrictions, although competitive first team football is off until next season after the decision to null and void the current Northern Premier League season.

The Dabbers ran a crowd-funding campaign late last year urging local people to help mitigate the impact the pandemic has had on finances, with a JustGiving page raising more than £23,000.

But as junior teams resume play, more money will be needed to meet the shortfall for general maintenance and running activities such as popular holiday sessions for children.

The County Group, based on Crewe Business Park, runs a special scheme called Club Connect to help raise funds for local clubs, where a percentage of the commission earned is donated back to the side when a customer takes out a new policy and mentions the club.

County Group managing director Alastair Christopherson explained: "Football bonds a community and we like to give back to the towns where we have offices and employ from the area.

"We are particularly proud of our association with Nantwich Town FC which is steeped in history and has passionate support.

"The club has strong roots in the community and encourages youngsters to get out and kick a ball while enjoying friendship and the camaraderie of being part of a team.

"Exercise to support mental health has become so crucial during Covid and the club plays a vital role in reaching out to so many youngsters with its youth teams and school holiday activities.

"Well done to all its officials, volunteers and fans for their sterling effort to support the club in what remain very challenging times."

Nantwich Town Chairman Jon Gold said: "Like other community clubs, the pandemic has hit hard. We put out an urgent appeal late last year and there was a tremendous response, but we rely heavily on volunteers and this momentum needs to be maintained to ensure the future of the club as the hub of local activity.

"We are grateful to The County Group and to all our sponsors and would be delighted to hear from any local business that can support us.

"In line with the easing of restrictions we have welcomed back all of our junior, youth, ladies and disability sides this week and look forward to the day when fans can join us at the Optimum Pay Stadium."

Nantwich Town ladies resume action when they host Stalybridge Celtic Ladies on Sunday, April 11.

See the County Group's website here