Altrincham bosses have been overwhelmed by the generosity of fans, players and even supporters of other clubs after seeing their appeal for funds surge past its £10,000 target inside a week.

News of the Go Fund Me campaign launch, to help tide the club over the current coronavirus crisis, appeared in last week’s Messenger and by Tuesday morning this week, the total raised had reached a staggering £12,460.

Long-serving defender Shaun Densmore set the tone for player contributions and his donation was swiftly followed by similar gestures from team-mates Jake Moult, Josh Hancock, James Jones, Jordan Hulme, Josh Ollerenshaw and at least two more anonymously.

Alty-supporting Premier League referee Anthony Taylor pitched in, and there was even an offering from a Portsmouth fan, following the Robins’ gallant attempt at an FA Cup giantkilling act at Fratton Park earlier this season.

Ever-generous Alty followers have provided the bulk of the funds, and the depth of feeling for the club was summed up by 13-year old local girl Erinbeau Carroll donating her pocket money of £20, a gesture that will earn her a VIP experience at the ground when football returns to The J.Davidson Stadium.

The appeal remains open at www.gofundme.com/f/alty-fc-donation, and director Bill Waterson said: "The job of thanking our fans for their support is one I will never tire of, and they are making me more and more proud to be associated with Altrincham Football Club.

"The board are frankly blown away by a response that cements our fans’ reputation as the best in the business. The appointment of Anthony Taylor is often questioned when he officiates one of the bigger Manchester clubs, but the answer is clear – he is an Alty fan.

"Many of the players and staff have contributed, and a special mention for Erinbeau. To her comment of 'we love our family club' we respond in kind with 'we love all the Alty family'."