COMPANIES from near and far continue to throw their weight behind Grimsby Town's future – and The Century Club.
Devised by the club in partnership with the Grimsby Telegraph, the initiative continues to prove a roaring success.
Companies of all sizes, or individuals, can become members of the exclusive club by pledging £200 each, and helping to raise £20,000 for the Mariners' Youth department.
And after Ramsden's superstore kicked off the campaign last month, more businesses from the local area and beyond have followed their lead by donating money.
EWS are one of those to have signed up to The Century Club already, and director Brian Nicholson believes it is a fantastic concept.
He said: "The sustainability of Grimsby Town is very important to the area and we wanted to support them in any way we can.
"Money is so tight at this level, so the best thing clubs can do is to try to bring on the Youth team players so that they can be eventually brought into the first team.
"We've got a box at Blundell Park and have long been supporters of the club, and we always try to help them out in any way we can.
"So when we heard about The Century Club, we wanted to get involved.
"I think it is a great idea and we're pleased to be part of it."
John Venney, managing director at CBM Controlled Building Measures, was also delighted to become a member of the club, which aims to sustain and grow the Youth and Academy sides.
He believes current first-teamers Andi Thanoj, Bradley Wood, pictured left, and Dayle Southwell – who have all passed through the Mariners' Youth system – show the benefits of the set-up.
Venney added: "CBM used to sponsor the School of Excellence shirts so we've supported the Youth set-up at Grimsby for a long time now.
"So when I saw the launch of The Century Club in the Grimsby Telegraph, I thought it was a great idea.
"Anything that encourages people and businesses to support the Youth team can only be a good thing.
"Hopefully, with the help of The Century Club, we will see some home-grown lads progress through to the first team.
"I've been watching Town for years and it is always nice to see local lads representing the club.
"I think if you can field three or four local lads in your first team, it can add a few hundred to the gate on a match-day."
To get involved and become a member of The Century Club for just £200, call Grimsby Town's commercial manager Dave Smith on 01472 608007.
