Walsall supporters have kicked off the new season in style by teaming up with a leading regional building society to help generate a special bonus payment of almost £11,000.
The Saddlers have secured £10,822 from the West Brom in annual proceeds from the Saddlers Super Saver affinity account, an exclusive savings product which is only available to supporters of Walsall FC.
The money will be used by the club to support its youth development programme, identifying and nurturing potential footballing stars of tomorrow.
Defensive duo Rico Henry and Paul Downing were on hand to receive the cheque at a special presentation staged at the Walsall branch of the West Brom in Bridge Street. The pair also held a meet and greet with customers and Saddlers fans.
Stefan Gamble, chief executive of Walsall FC, spoke to Saddlers.co.uk about the much-needed donation, he said; “We pass on our heartfelt thanks to the West Brom for their continued support through the Saddlers Super Saver affinity account.
“It’s a fantastic scheme which benefits both Walsall fans and the club and the money donated by the West Brom will make a huge difference. It allows us to offer the best youth programme possible and that is a crucial for any club."
Lorraine Standring, manager of West Brom’s Walsall branch, also spoke to Saddlers.co.uk, and said: “Having Rico and Paul in the branch created a great buzz for both staff and our customers and as a building society we are proud to make this donation.
“The Saddlers Super Saver is a win-win situation for fans – they can save money for themselves and help their club at the same time. We make an annual bonus payment to the Saddlers based on the total amount saved across all accounts, so the more fans save the more the club receives."