Colby is the latest club to announce it is joining the list of Manx football clubs to provide sheltered seating for its supporters.

Thanks to a donation from the Manx Lottery Trust, Colby has the funds to set about building a 50-seat stand at its Station Road home.

The trust has donated £10,000 to the club, which celebrates its centenary next year.

The funding will go towards the building of the stand which will have disabled seating and access. Planning permission (18/00599/B) was granted in August 2018.

Colby AFC chairman Dickie Gale said: ’We are overjoyed that Manx Lottery Trust has confirmed this grant to us.

’Having our own stand is a natural progression for the club and, by increasing the number of spectators, we hope to encourage a proportion to get more involved and further develop our presence in the community.

’The clubhouse is used most nights for activities such as keep fit classes and meetings and requires many volunteers. We also have a wide range of both male and female players of all ages and the astroturf pitch is in use seven days a week, not only by members but by other social groups and organisations.

’It is rewarding to provide players with the facilities needed for playing and practising the sport they love.’

Sarah Kelly, chairman of the Manx Lottery Trust, added: ’It is clear Colby AFC plays an important role in the community. The club continues to grow, is fully inclusive and welcomes members of all ages and abilities and is committed to encouraging football as a sport for everyone.’

Colby’s first team will play in JCK Division Two next season.