A business in Ulverston has been celebrating a decade of community support.

J F Hornby and Co's Hornby Foundation was set up to make a difference to the lives of people in the towns and villages it serves.

The foundation has donated hundreds of thousands of pounds since it was first launched, with both Ulverston Rangers Football Club and the Ulverston Otters Swimming Club marking 10 years of backing at the end of last month.

Read more: Ulverston business backs community groups with £10k funding | The Mail

Over the decade, the clubs have been supported by £50,000 between them.

Ulverston Rangers Treasurer John Edwards, Paul Hornby, Managing Director of JF Hornby & Co, and Secretary Phil GrantUlverston Rangers Treasurer John Edwards, Paul Hornby, Managing Director of JF Hornby & Co, and Secretary Phil Grant (Image: Submitted)

Paul Hornby, the managing director of JF Hornby & Co, said: “Nothing gives us greater joy than seeing the positive impact of the grants we distribute.

“Giving back is an important part of what we do – I am always of the view that if we can, we should.

“The Otters and Ulverston Rangers have had such a positive impact on the lives of so many residents of all ages, and I’m delighted that we have been able to support these unbelievably valuable community groups for the last ten years.”

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The Ulverston Otters use the grant money to subsidise fees, ensuring its sessions are accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of their personal or family finances.

Club secretary Rosemary Jones said: “The club has significant running costs linked to the hire of the pool, so the ongoing support we receive from the Hornby Foundation is invaluable.

“We are so incredibly grateful for the support of the team at JF Hornby - the grant funding they provide makes a real and positive difference.”

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For at least 10 years, the open-age team at Ulverston Rangers – which is for players aged 16 and upwards – has looked the part in the latest kit on match days and during training, thanks to grants from the Foundation.

Club treasurer John Edwards added: "When we are on the road for a fixture, we’re not just representing the club, but the town - seeing the team travel to and arrive for fixtures in smart, matching kit is fantastic.

“The grant funding from the Hornby Foundation makes a huge difference to team spirit, pride and togetherness - it means a great deal to have their continued support.”