VOLUNTEERS have launched a campaign for support from their neighbours to help them give children a better experience of athletics.

Coaches at Knutsford Harriers Athletics Club, in their second year, are hoping to raise enough money to buy a high jump mat for the junior members.

A Crowdfunder initiative, which invites financial donations in return for rewards, hopes to collect £2,000 by the middle of next month.

“We’re a small group, but we’re growing,” said Patrick Cassidy.

“We started from nothing, putting on running sessions for kids at Tatton Park.

“In the time we’ve been together, we’ve bought a range of smaller pieces of athletics equipment, but a high jump mat is a bit out of our reach.

“That’s why we need a bit of help to reach the target we’ve set.”

Close to 40 boys and girls, aged from eight through to 15, are now members.

They take part in indoor and outdoor sessions every week.

Cassidy said: “Not all of our kids are runners, so it would be great to offer something different to keep them engaged with the sport.

“If they can find a field event they’re good at, they may go on to represent us at competitions.”

Harriers have a base now at Knutsford Academy, where they will have access to a new pits for long jump and triple jump and also a throws cage once they are complete.

A link to the Harriers’ Crowdfunder page, along with further details, can be found at knutsfordharriers.co.uk