Local club hails community support after storm damage

An Offaly soccer club has hailed the phenomenal community support shown in the wake of the roof of part of its clubhouse being badly damaged.

Clara Town FC was left reeling last weekend when Storm Isha caused extensive damage to its clubhouse at Stanley O'Hara Park.

The clubhouse is used as a central hub for games, trainings, parties, and community events.

However, an online fundraiser set up with a target of €10,000 had attracted donations of over €14,400 in just five days before it was closed down on Saturday.

In a post on its Facebook page on Saturday, the club said: "We cannot put into words the gratitude we feel towards the community both near and far."

It said "to say we are overwhelmed is an understatement".

"We want to offer a sincere thanks to everyone that has helped us in any way this week. The tradesmen who gave up their time, the businesses that have reached out, the fellow voluntary clubs who have been extremely generous. And to ever person that donated to or supported fundraiser."

"Every cent donated will be used to rebuild our club and have it stronger than ever."