HUNDREDS of pounds given out to a good cause by Kidderminster and Stourport Athletic Club have bounced back as a cash windfall for the Back on Track Appeal.

Every year the club hosts a 10k race at its Kingsway home and hundreds of runners help to raise money for the Ray Mercer Sporting Foundation.

Last year the event generated £440 for the foundation which supports Wyre Forest's most talented youngsters by giving out cash grants to help them achieve their sporting ambitions.

But the organisation's trustees have decided the club's need is greater this year and so have handed back the money for the Back on Track Appeal.

The foundation was set up in memory of former Kidderminster Harriers secretary, Ray Mercer, in 1996, and his son, Richard, who is a trustee, said: "Our donation to the appeal fits very well with our aim to give a financial helping hand to the best young sportsmen and women in the district.

"We have given grants to several members of both the athletic and hockey clubs in the past.

"Our grant scheme is for young people who may otherwise miss out on developing their potential.

"There is no doubt that the Back on Track Appeal is important to young athletes and hockey players, who will not get their usual level of support until the equipment lost in the fire is fully replaced."

He added: "We are grateful to the athletic club for supporting the foundation with the proceeds of their 10k race, especially at a time when they are trying to raise money for themselves. But we feel the money would be best spent on new equipment so that normal service can be resumed for youngsters from the two Wyre Forest clubs."

An athletics club spokesman said: "This has come as a great surprise and we are touched by the foundation's gesture.

"It is an organisation we have supported for a long time because it does some excellent work in giving vital encouragement to young people.

"The money they give in grants is important but so is the recognition that goes with it. It all helps to lift the confidence of Wyre Forest's sports stars of the future."