A former professional footballer is calling on residents to fundraise for the Bovingdon Thunder U7’s football team.

Michael Duberry, 39, from Hemel Hempstead is a former centre-back for Chelsea, Leeds United and Reading football clubs, who recently became manager for the Bovingdon Thunder U7’s team, which his son Koby plays for.

Michael set up a GoFUndMe campaign last week with the aim of raising £2,500, to help provide the Bovingdon Thunder players with a new kit, tracksuits and training equipment for the new season.

In six days, over £2,100 of the fundraising target has been donated via GoFundMe.

Michael said: "I look back to the beginning of my football journey and think that if my parents had had to pay for anything other than boots and subs then I wouldn’t have carried on for long.

"I don’t want any of my team to have to have their journey stopped for the reason of expense. Donations will help the team start their football journey on a strong and positive note."

Kelsea Little, media director at GoFundMe.com, added: "Michael’s campaign to fundraise for the local kids football team has already been very successful, almost reaching its £2,500 target in under a week.

"This campaign is a shining example of what can happen when GoFundMe is used to its full potential."

To donate, visit http://www.gofundme.com/wnzub8.