Now they have new state-of-the art dug-outs to keep the wind off their backs and leave them ready to spring into action – thanks to a donation from a community fund by councillor Paula Thacker.

Gunthorpe Harriers took ownership of the new dugouts, including kitbags, at their home ground of Campbell Drive, and celebrated in style by hitting seven goals past Woodston Dynamos Reds.

Manager of the Under-12's team Andy Roberts said the new equipment would make a huge difference to their season.

He added: "Paula came along to present the new dugouts and kit bags and they have already brought us luck, because we won 7-1.

"We are currently top of the league and we are really grateful for the donation. All our five teams will get to use them, and there is also a dugout for the opposition to use. It will be a real luxury, especially for some of the younger players, who are only six and seven."

Councillor Thacker, who represents North Gunthorpe and South Werrington was delighted to help the team out.

She said: "The dugouts are absolutely terrific and I am so pleased to be able to donate some of my Community Leadership Fund to the teams. They were lovely lads and all said thank you, which was great.

"Hopefully, I will be able to help the team again next year, although they did ask for floodlights and a pavilion which might be a little out of the price range – so I am hoping they will settle for some sweatshirts."