Fans raise over £20,000 to clear Merthyr Town’s HMRC tax bill

Merthyr Town’s interim chairman Paul Donovan says the club is “overwhelmed” by the donations from fans and the football community to help settle their HMRC tax bill.
A Just Giving page was set up following the Martyrs 13-1 Evo-Stik South Premier defeat to Chesham United.
Manager Gavin Williams was forced to play a youth team in the fixture after financial issues were revealed which led to a mass boardroom walkout and the release of nearly all first-team players.
The club called for help by setting up the fundraising page to clear their tax bill, initially setting the target at £2,500, not knowing the extent of the money due.
The target was then adjusted to £25,000 and the club’s supporters and wider football fans responded brilliantly to keep Merthyr afloat.
Donovan said: “The club have been overwhelmed by the donations received from everyone via Just Giving.
“There have also been numerous other fundraising initiatives including bucket collections at Cardiff City, Swansea City and Newport County which has meant that we have now settled the amount owed to HMRC including interest. The remaining money will be ring-fenced to go towards future tax owed.”
“I would like to personally thank the Dial M for Merthyr boys for all of their fundraising activities, along with others who have raised money, and of course the donors for their support and generosity.”
A Merthyr statement added: “The club will keep owners updated going forward with regards to the financial situation of the club with other debts still owed.”