Persimmon Homes East Scotland has donated £3,000 to Hutchison Vale Football Club, helping to support one of Edinburgh’s most iconic grassroots football organisations.

The donation, made through Persimmon’s Community Champions initiative, helped fund a recent trip to Newcastle, where the club’s youth teams competed in a football competition, gaining valuable experience and making memories that will last a lifetime. As part of the support, the Persimmon logo will also feature on the 2015 squad’s kit, worn proudly in the club’s traditional yellow and black colours.

Hutchison Vale FC, based at Ford’s Road in Saughton, was originally founded in 1940 to provide footballing opportunities for boys in the Hutchison area and surrounding communities. Now, the club supports 400–500 boys and girls across 20 teams, with players ranging from under 10s to under 20s, along with a thriving Junior Academy for children aged five to eight.

The club has produced more than 30 Scottish international players and countless others who have gone on to play professionally, including Paul Hanlon, Leigh Griffiths, Allan McGregor, Kenny Miller, and John Collins. Other former players include Gregor Townsend, Scotland’s national rugby coach, and rising boxing star Lee McGregor.

Neil Parry, managing director of Persimmon Homes East Scotland, said: “Hutchison Vale has a proud tradition of developing young talent while instilling the values of discipline, teamwork and respect.

“We’re delighted to support their trip to Newcastle and help ensure the next generation continues to benefit from all that the club has to offer.”

Tam Smith, club leader, said: “We are very grateful for this generous donation. It will make a huge difference in ensuring our boys have a fantastic experience at their tournament in Newcastle.

“With funding becoming tighter each year, this support is invaluable to our voluntary organisation.”

A grassroots football team in Midlothian is also celebrating a significant boost after Persimmon Homes East Scotland donated £2,000 to support its youngest players.

Arniston Rangers Youth Football Club, based in Gorebridge, is an inclusive club offering opportunities for children across the community to enjoy the game regardless of background or ability. The donation will fund new match kits and training gear for the club’s 2017 squad, complete with Persimmon branding proudly displayed on the blue strips and maroon training tops.

The team had been actively fundraising through community events, including sponsored walks and raffles, but needed extra help to meet their target. Persimmon’s sponsorship ensures the team will be fully kitted out for both the 2025 and 2026 seasons, helping promote pride and team spirit.

Neil Parry added: “At Persimmon, we’re committed to supporting the communities where we operate, and that means investing in young people.

“Clubs like Arniston Rangers do an incredible job of nurturing not only sporting talent but also confidence, teamwork, and resilience. We’re proud to help them continue that great work and wish the 2017 team every success for the seasons ahead.”

James Sloggie, Arniston Rangers Youth Football Club, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Persimmon Homes for their generous sponsorship of Arniston Rangers 2017s. Their support is a huge boost not only to our team but to the growth of grassroots football in our community.

“Partnerships like this help nurture young players and strengthen the foundations of the beautiful game for generations to come.”

Finally, Bishopton FC Girls Academy has proudly unveiled its brand-new football kits following a £3,000 donation from Charles Church West Scotland.

The support has enabled the club to purchase much-needed training and match-day kits for its rapidly growing teams. Founded in 2021 with just 50 players, the Academy now supports over 120 girls across multiple age groups, reflecting the club’s dedication to inclusive grassroots football and the growing popularity of the girls’ game.

With such rapid growth, the club faced a challenge in supplying enough kit to ensure every player could participate fully in training and fixtures. The donation from Charles Church has bridged that gap, helping to equip players with high-quality kits and boosting team pride and cohesion across all age levels.

Chris Logan, managing director of Charles Church West Scotland, said: “We’re proud to support Bishopton FC Girls Academy as they continue to grow and inspire more young girls to take up the sport.

“Seeing the players in their new kits is fantastic, and we’re pleased that our Community Champions funding has helped make this happen. Alongside our commitment to delivering new homes in the area, we’re also committed to supporting the local community.”