Youth football club 'left with 95p' after fraud

A youth football club was left with just 95p in its bank account after losing more than £30,000 in a suspected fraud, its chairman has revealed.

In a statement released on 30 December, Andover Town YFC said it had been the victim of a "significant fraud" and urged people not to indulge in online speculation while police investigate.

Chairman Nick Stephens said there was "anger" and "despair" at the club which allows about 140 children to play football.

Hampshire Constabulary said a woman in her 30s from Hampshire had been arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation.

Mr Stephens said he had been left "completely gobsmacked" when the extent of the fraud was realised in mid-December.

"We had 95p left in our bank account in which to to operate on.

"So a lot of anger obviously, how could someone do this? But also just despair that 140 children may be let down and not be able to continue playing football."

The club, which is a registered charity, requires funds for day-to-day expenses including astroturf pitch hire, equipment and refereeing costs.

The club has so far raised more than £5,000 for urgent expenses through an online appeal.

A New Year's Day run and fundraising football match have so far been staged to help replenish its accounts.

The club, which runs boys' and girls' teams, said some matches might be disrupted although training would continue as planned.

It said three local schools had allowed the use of their pitches despite outstanding debts.

Michelle Ellis whose son is a player said the club was "like a family".

"The boys are all friends outside of the football community, as are the parents," she said.

"It it were to fold, it would be absolutely devastating. It's an amazing thing to be a part of so we just hope we can keep going."

Mr Stephens said the club "ultimately cannot continue without money", but insisted it would fight for survival.

"It's heartbreaking you know and it's something I'm not prepared to let happen. One way or another this club has to be saved."

Police said the woman arrested was released on police bail until 30 March pending further inquiries.

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