The Armchair Club, a group of people that has raised more than £350,000 over the past 45 years to help local sports clubs and talented young sportspeople, is urging clubs to apply for support.

A spokesperson said: “Does your club have plans to support and encourage talented young athletes or promote coaching development or provide essential equipment or increase participation among girls and disabled athletes?

“If your club is looking to the future and wants to grow through these and other initiatives, now is the perfect time to apply for support from the Armchair Club.”

Formed in the 1980s by local business leaders, the club has helped people across Mansfield, Mansfield Woodhouse, Warsop, Sutton and Kirkby, as well as surrounding villages including Blidworth, Edwinstowe, Rainworth, and Ravenshead.

Since gaining charitable status in 2015 as the Armchair Club Sports Foundation, the club has also been able to seek support from additional charitable sources.

It raises money from popular annual community events such as the annual Charity Swimathon, a golf tournament, Question of Sport evening, and the Sports Recognition Awards.

The spokesperson added: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Mansfield Building Society to jointly support club applications for financial assistance.

“Successful applicants may receive awards ranging from £250 to £1,000 to help bring their development plans to life.

“Request your application form today and take the next step in building a stronger future for your club.”

Go to www.armchairclub.org and complete an application form to ask for support.