ASPIRING soccer stars at Troon Youth AFC are celebrating after being selected to receive £5,000.

Tesco shoppers at the Camborne Superstore were given the chance to take part in a lucky dip to find a golden version of Tesco’s famous blue voting token. 

Troon Youth AFC were one of three local charities that customers could vote for to receive the £5,000 Golden Grant as part of Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme. 

John Tornabene, vice-chairman at Troon Youth AFC, said: “We're so grateful to Tesco for this £5,000 grant. It is going to have a massive and immediate effect on all the members and volunteers of our club, as well as the wider community who use our club on a weekly basis. 

“Plans for our essential outdoor renovations, which were realistically going to take at least 18 months to save up for, are now going ahead, and our members and the community are going to start seeing and appreciating immediate changes that will directly benefit their weekly experience.” 

More than 100 Tesco stores took part in the Golden Grants event, with £500,000 in total being donated to good causes that help children and young people.

Kevin Jewitt, store manager at Camborne Superstore, said: “This is fantastic news for our community. The club promotes competitive, sporting football with a strong emphasis on respect and enjoyment.” 

Stronger Starts helps schools and children’s groups provide nutritious food and healthy activities that support young people’s physical health and mental wellbeing, such as breakfast clubs or snacks, as well as purchasing equipment for healthy activities. 

Golden Grants are part of Tesco’s Stronger Starts grant programme, which is delivered in partnership with the charity Groundwork UK.

Cornwall schools and children’s groups can apply for a Stronger Starts grant of £500, £1,000 or £1,500 by visiting www.tescoplc.com/strongerstarts