A £60,000 appeal to celebrate a football club's centenary has been kicked off with a £1,000 donation from a local businessman.

The cheque was handed over to Carterton Football Club's chairman Rob King during a club fundraising karaoke night.

It was given by Harry Watts, owner of the town's Doris Watts Nursing Home, who said: "The club is a very important amenity for Carterton, benefitting all young and older families alike.

"It is important to maintain and, where possible, improve the club's facilities for future use."

The club was founded in 1908 and plans to raise £60,000 to improve all its playing areas by relaying and installing a new drainage system.

It also plans a new 120-seated stand, toilets and changing area for the mini-soccer pitches and improved access and facilities for the disabled.

Bill Jenkins, club spokesman, said reaching the fundraising target would release similar funds form the Football Foundation Grant scheme.

The club is in the Hellenic League and runs 29 male and female teams, as well as a mini-soccer club on Sunday mornings.

Jenkins added: "All of the players, parents and families are being encouraged to raise money towards the Centenary Fund.

"With many events already organsied, we would like to ask all local businesses to get behind us and support our fundraising activity."