Joe Hart pitching in to help athletic club

The Shrewsbury-born shot-stopper was approached by Shrewsbury Athletic Club president Derek Hayward MBE.

It came after managers of their London Road stadium base made a sharp increase in track hire fees.

The appeal, which hopes to raise £1,000, was made after fears that the alternative – upping the membership fee – may cause the club to lose a number of members.

Hart, a former head boy at Meole Brace School in Shrewsbury, was active in a number of sports during his teenage years – including athletics.

He was reminded of the school days he spent competing at the stadium – and was keen to support Hayward's Appeal. A thrilled Hayward praised the England No 1 after his donation.

Hayward said: "Joe's gesture of support for sport at grassroots level should be seen as an example to all those fortunate enough to have reached the top level in their professional sporting careers

"It's nice to see professional sportsmen realising that they owe their standards to school and grassroots sport.

"It's very good of Joe for recognising that, because it doesn't happen very often."

Hart's father, Chris, instantly got in touch with Hayward after receiving the letter, which was sent to Manchester City's base.

During their phone conversation, Chris realised that he had been coached by Hayward when attending a coaching course at Cosford almost 50 years ago.

Chris represented Staffordshire Schools in the triple jump at the English Schools Championships on a number of occasions.

Hayward, a senior AAA jumps coach, added: "It was truly an emotional moment to experience being re-united after such a long period of time.

"Hopefully others will follow suit now that they know Joe has put some in. It's not how much any one person gives, it's about the philosophy behind it.

"The young athletes we have may not go on to become another Joe Hart – but if they go on to do something healthy, then that is good enough for me.

"There are 200 members of the club so the donations affect all of those and other clubs that would compete at the venue.

"We are targeting £1,000 because we decided that it will be better than having to increase membership fees by 60 per cent which is what we had to deal with."

The appeal has now reached almost £700. Anyone wishing to donate should phone Hayward on 01939 233 220 or e-mail derekhayward543@btinternet.com.