When the Sir Stanley Matthews Foundation was formed in October 2000, its first ambition was to create a striking and lasting memorial to a son of Stoke-on-Trent who became one of the greatest-ever worldwide sporting legends.

This was achieved by the erection of an imposing statue at the Britannia Stadium, the home of Stoke City and the football club where Sir Stan both started and ended his career. Thanks to the generosity of the people of the Potteries and further afield, the cost of £210,000 was met in full.

But the completion of the statue is only part of the Foundation success story.

• The Foundation now raises money to encourage young people to take part in sport and to achieve through sport
• The Foundation can assist young people financially, whatever their sporting disciplines, levels of ability or ambitions.
• The Foundation makes regular grants to people under 21 years of age.
• Any youngster under the age of 21 taking part can apply to the Foundation for a grant.

The Foundation is also involved in funding a number of group coaching schemes at various establishments, again maintaining Sir Stan’s principles of creating and sustaining opportunities for young people to enjoy partaking in sport and to achieve through that.

If you are considering making a donation to the Foundation, thank you for your time and interest.

It is possible to make a one-off donation or a regular contribution, please visit our Donations section for more details.

Nigel William Johnson,
Foundation Chairman.