CHESTER City FC’s loyal supporters have helped to raise thousands of pounds for the baby unit at the Countess.

The hospital’s fundraising team have regularly attended the Blues’ Deva Stadium on match days to raise money through collections.

Many hours have been spent mingling with the fans whose generosity has raised £10,800 which will pay for an incubator in the Special Care Baby Unit.

Fundraising manager Kate Taylor said: “Since the first collection before the Nottingham Forest game back in August 2007 the fans have been extremely generous with their donations week after week.

“The club in general has been absolutely fantastic and we’d really like to thank everyone for their help.”

Blues director Ian Anderson made a personal donation of £1,335 to help reach the final target on account of his own personal attachment to the equipment being purchased.

He explained: “This cause was something close to my heart as my baby daughter nearly died at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and this piece of equipment saved her.”

Kate added: “We’ve all had a great time mixing with the club and the fans and we hope to get involved in more events with them in the near future, hopefully by which time they will be in the Champions League.”

The fundraising team is currently putting its efforts into the Trust’s new £500,000 appeal – Relative Comfort – which will provide accommodation and counselling rooms for relatives of patients in the critical care unit.

The first event taking place is the Santa Stroll, which is a 5km walk taking place on Sunday, December 7.

To register or to find out more information about how you can help raise money contact the team on 01244 366240.