This picture shows the cup on a table covered with the club crests of teams which have taken part in the cup. Behind it are members of the JW Hunt Cup committee, Gough Group Holdings and representatives from the Beacon Centre.

CONSTRUCTION company Gough Group Holdings Ltd, has stepped forward as the proud new sponsor of the JW Hunt Cup, a historic charity non-league football competition that has been a cornerstone in supporting the Beacon Centre for the Blind since 1926.

The announcement marks a significant milestone in the tournament’s rich legacy, as it continues to champion the local sight loss charity with more than £360,000 raised to date.

Alex Hamil MBE, President of the JW Hunt Cup, remarked: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Gough Group Holdings Ltd as the new sponsor for the JW Hunt Cup. Their commitment to community values and local causes resonates with the spirit of our tournament. This collaboration with such a well -known local company adds another layer of significance to an already storied competition.”

Lisa Cowley, Chief Executive of the Beacon Centre for the Blind, added: “The JW Hunt Cup has been an unwavering source of support for the Beacon Centre for nearly a century. The funds raised through this tournament play a crucial role in empowering those with sight loss, providing essential services, and fostering a community of resilience. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Gough Group Holdings Ltd for their commitment in helping to continue this legacy.”

John Gough, Chairman of the Gough Group Holdings Ltd said: “Everyone at Gough feels incredibly privileged to be asked to support such a historic cup. We will do our very best to represent the traditions of the cup and we are looking forward to working together.”

The cup is named in memory of John William Hunt, a local businessman and benefactor and has been run every season since 1926/27 including during World Wars. While the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 seasons were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic the team behind the cup continued their fundraising off the field.

Teams compete from the Birmingham, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire Football Associations.