Workington increase next season’s playing budget

Workington are to increase manager Danny Grainger’s playing budget following a season in which the Reds led the way in the Northern Premier League’s Division One North West when play was brought to an abrupt halt.

The Cumbrian side were bidding to return to the Northern Premier Division at the first attempt, and at the time of March’s season suspension, they sat ten points clear of Ramsbottom United having played 3 games more. The Reds nevertheless led the division outright and were denied a promotion that they were firmly in the driving seat to gain.

With the Coronavirus pandemic continuing to wreak havoc with everyday life and football as well, Workington have been fundraising to try to help secure the club’s future, reaching £17,000 of their £20,000 target so far.

Chairman Les Byers said: “This is truly an amazing achievement that has galvanised our supporters at this strange and difficult time. We cannot thank everyone enough for their generous help and support.”

With all contracted players and staff on furlough, the club say they are ‘totally committed to topping up the 80% government grant so everyone receives their full wages just as before the pandemic.’

After an extremely impressive first season in management for ex-Carlisle United and Hearts player Grainger, a board statement revealed: “The club has fully reviewed our manager’s playing budget for the new season and agreed a 20% increase. Danny can now start planning to strengthen his squad.”