A collection held at the recent Cornish Pirates versus Ampthill match in support of the local YMCA in Penzance raised a very worthy £663.05.

From its very earliest days, YMCA Cornwall has provided supportive accommodation to young people in need. As an independent local charity based in Penzance, the organisation relies on donations and grants to fund much of their work.

Helen Wilson-Prowse, on behalf of the YMCA, commented: “Thank you so much for allowing us to be part of Saturday. It was a great win for the Pirates on the field and our sincere thanks are expressed to all those who kindly donated off it.

“YMCA Cornwall provides supported accommodation for vulnerable young people aged 16-24. It has 50 flats and there are only 170 such places in the whole of Cornwall so the work they do is crucial to ensuring safe and secure housing for young people at risk.

“Last year 20 of these homes were at risk as one of the buildings on the site needed a new roof. The work just had to be done ahead of the winter to prevent the loss of the building. The project cost was £76,000 and £50,000 has been raised to date.

“Our efforts are still ongoing to cover the £26,000 shortfall and it is support from such as the Pirates and their supporters that will hopefully enable us to cross the finishing line.”

For more information about YMCA Cornwall, visit: ymcacornwall.org