SUFFOLK clubs have until June 22nd to apply for the next round of Emergency Grant Funding.

The Suffolk FA Emergency Grant Fund of £40,000 was the initial pot made available as part of a potential £84,000 funding package for leagues and clubs for the 2020-21 season.

The package was announced just over a month ago, with clubs in immediate danger due to the COVID-19 pandemic given an initial deadline by which to apply for an Emergency Grant.

Two clubs applied and were successfully awarded 100% grants.

One of those was Achilles FC, whose first team play in the Macron SIL Senior Division and are the current holders of the CNet Training Suffolk Senior Cup.

A spokesman for Achilles said: “We are very grateful to Suffolk FA for their help at this difficult time.

“Without their support the club was in danger as we were not able to pay the bills.

“This will help to secure the future of our club and we can now look forward to the start of next season, whenever that may be.”

Players from Achilles FC celebrate above and main photograph after their 4-3 victory over Cornard United in the final of last season's CNet Training Suffolk Senior Cup at Portman Road

Suffolk FA Chief Executive Richard Neal said: “We're delighted to be able to help clubs navigate this period via our Emergency Grant Fund.

“One club we have supported is Achilles FC – Dave Morgan, Patricia Morgan and Malcolm Saunders in particular do a phenomenal job in keeping this club going and I have upmost admiration for their dedication and enthusiasm.

“Not only have we been able to support Achilles FC with financial assistance but we'll be working together to strengthen the ongoing health of the club.

“The next deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday, June 22nd and I encourage any club with immediate financial concerns to get in touch ahead of submitting an application in accordance with the letter issued to clubs on April 28th.

“Even if not applying for an Emergency Grant, we are keen to use this time to help clubs, players, volunteers, coaches and officials be as prepared as possible for when the new season can start, so please do continue to get in touch with the Suffolk FA team on 01449 616606 or via email info@suffolkfa.com”