Company steps in to help hockey club

A HOCKEY club facing financial ruin has been handed a lifeline by a construction firm.

Dundee Wanderers is the biggest hockey club in the city, having been established in 1934. The club’s financial difficulties stem from being selected as the host for the Euro Hockey Indoor Club Champions Cup — the top women’s club competition in Europe.

With the costs of staging this month’s event approaching £20,000, the future of the club was in doubt. The Wanderers faced an £8,092 bill for hire of Dundee International Sports Centre (DISC).

Hotel accommodation for officials was another £4,800, with other costs including flights for officials on top.

Following an appeal for help, the club secured sponsorship and support from Midland Hockey Union and SportDundee to the tune of £3,500. Last month, it received word this sum would be matched by Dundee Leisure and Culture, reducing the cost of hiring DISC to £4,592. However, even with club fundraising and local businesses supporting the event, the club had faced a financial black hole. That’s when civil engineer contractor Kilmac came forward with a £4,000 donation — and £2,000 more from its suppliers — to ensure tournament costs will be covered.

Richard Kilcullen, managing director of Kilmac, said the firm was delighted to help.

Kirkton High being built in 1959.