While the result may not have been what we wanted on the pitch yesterday, once again we have been overwhelmed by the love, generosity and community of West supporters. In the middle of last week, Barakah Food Aid put out a call for donation to their foodbank, and – feeling the need to help – we as a club offered to take in donations from those coming to our game against Runcorn Town. The response was incredible – with countless bags containing vital essentials being donated on the day.

These items will go to some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and will make sure that Barakah Food Aid – an incredible organisation that has done an enormous amount of good – can continue supporting those in need.

Much like at last year’s Christmas Miracle game, where we ran foodbank donations and had a huge response, we have once again been humbled by the warmth of our fanbase. These items will be collected today, and distributed over the coming weeks. The sad fact is that, in one of the world’s largest economies, we are still unable to care for all members of our society – and one food bank donation drive (however successful) is only a short term solution. If you’re able, it is worth thinking about making regular donations to Barakah, or supporting other organisations such as the Trussell Trust Chorlton & West Didsbury foodbank (who we supported at the aforementioned Christmas game), the Mad Dogs Street Project or another organisation doing crucial work for those in need.

Once again – thank you for your involvement yesterday: even when things don’t go right during the 90 minutes, this club still manages to make me more passionate about it with every passing day

– Matthew Britton
West Supporters’ Club secretary