A BRANCH of the Coop has helped a junior football club achieve their goals.

When Spennithorne and Harmby Junior Football Club needed a financial boost to buy some equipment they jumped at the chance of doing a bagpack at the Leyburn Co-op following an offer by Store Manager Jonathan Barker.

Under the watchful eye of their parents a team of young people spent a day cheerily helping shoppers pack their purchases. In addition the Coop also donated a food hamper for a raffle. At the conclusion of the eventful day the young people had benefited to the tune of over £500 from generous shoppers.

The cash has been used to purchase new kit for the two teams: the Under 9s and Under 5&6; they were also able to buy some pop-up practice goals.

As a way of thanking Mr Barker, the Co-op staff and customers the young people called in to the shop to show them their newly-acquired kit and equipment.

Currently the Co-op is supporting three local causes: the Guide and Scout Hut, the Wensleydale Chorus and Foxglove Covert nature reserve. Members can vote for them to receive a share of profits.

Leyburn’s Store Manager Jonathan Barker said: “We were very impressed with the teams and it was nice to see what they had bought.

“Our present round of supported community causes will end in spring; it’s worth being a Coop member so you can both help choose a good cause and support it by simply buying our products.”

For details of how to apply as a supported cause see www. causes.coop.co.uk/.