A SUCCESSFUL fundraising project has led to the purchase of a defibrillator for Sandown and Lake Football Club.

Additionally, the club has also raised funds to get CCTV installed, to help keep the equipment safe.

The project came about at the beginning of August, following a chat with Steve Read, of IW Defibrillators.

Members of Sandown and Lake Youth committee decided to start working alongside Steve to raise funds.

They set up charity collection tins, sold sweets and tuck on training days and started to arrange some fundraising events.

A friendly football match and funday was organised, which took place on Sunday, October 17. See gallery of images above.

A nail-biting game took place, with 21 members of Sandown and Lake Youth, consisting of managers, coaches and players' family members, playing against the Isle of Wight Fire Service football team.

The match ended in a 4-2 win to Sandown and Lake.

The family friendly event featured a fantastic raffle, tombola and a visit from Shanklin Fire Station's fire crew and engine — a bit hit with the children.

With £455 raised beforehand, and £920 through the fun day, the total is currently at £1,375.

The defibrillator was presented at the event.

A spokesperson from the club said: "We were so pleased to work with Steve and give the IW Defibrillator charity funds back to help get more vital pieces of equipment on the Island!

"We have now also received the most amazing news that Lake Parish Council has accepted our application for a grant to install CCTV at the grounds to keep this vital piece of equipment safe.

"The members of the club are overjoyed with getting this piece of equipment that could save someone’s life.

"The club is carrying on with fundraising events in the new year to raise essential funds to keep the club going for children within the local community.

"We would like to get our Portacabin painted and buy some new equipment for training purposes which will benefit all the members.

"This would not be possible without the kind help of our volunteers, sponsors and the local community.

"We are always on the look out for more volunteers to join us on the committee, and also managers and coaches to join the club. "We hold a juniors' session on a Saturday morning from 10am to 11am for four to seven year olds."

For further information contact the club secretary at sandownandlake@gmail.com