A donation page set up by Everton fans to help flood-hit Carlisle United and members of their local community has raised more than £9,000.
Blues supporters gave Carlisle their backing after the Toffees were drawn to face Carlisle in the FA Cup, following terrible floods which blighted the area before Christmas.
With an original target of £7,500, the Everton Fans’ Forum surpassed its original goal shortly before the club’s fourth round 3-0 victory against Carlisle yesterday, and donations are still being sent in from all over the UK .
Thousands of houses and businesses were wrecked by the flooding in December and clean up operations in Cumbria are still ongoing.
Carlisle United’s ground, Brunton Park, was also affected by the floods, which caused £3million worth of damage to the stadium, including the entire playing surface being submerged under water.
The football club had to relocate several staff away from the stadium, as reconstruction work took place to ensure that Brunton Park was acceptable for their last two matches against York and Everton.
A spokesperson from Everton Fans’ Forum told JMU Journalism: “We are very proud of reaching our target of £7,500 and we hope it can continue. The FA Cup tie was a real celebration for both clubs and had a triumph against adversity feel it.
“A big thanks to everyone that donated especially Everton Football Club who made a big donation and really got the ball rolling for the appeal.”
Carlisle United media officer Andy Hall told JMU Journalism: “We are amazed by how quickly the donations page has taken off. It shows that football family is still alive and kicking and it is a great testament to the people of Liverpool who are renowned for their generosity.
“I have no doubt that the donations will rise beyond the £10,ooo mark and we are so thankful of Everton Football Club who donated £5000.”
With 20 days left, funds can still be made by visiting the donations website here >>