Irish Iron supporters group donates £500 to end of season pitch renovation fund

Scunthorpe United is massively grateful to be in receipt of a generous £500 donation from the club’s official Irish supporters’ group, Irish Iron, to support pitch improvements during the close season.

The donation has been made on behalf of the 215 members of Irish Iron worldwide, capping what has been the most successful season in the group’s 31-year history in terms of both fundraising and membership growth.

The contribution will go directly towards ongoing work to enhance the playing surface ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, underlining the continued commitment of supporters at home and abroad to the long-term success of the club.

Speaking on behalf of Irish Iron, Bernard Griffin emphasised that the donation represents a collective effort: “This donation isn’t about any one individual — it’s about the 215 members worldwide who have paid their tenners to join us, bought our merchandise and supported our fundraising raffles. Without them, we’re nothing.”

Irish Iron have also expressed their ambition to continue building on this momentum, setting a target of 250 members for next season as they look to grow their global support base even further.

Chair Michelle Harness added: “A big thank you to Bernard for this donation, and also to all supporters who get behind the Irish Iron supporters group each and every season. The Irish Iron epitomise everything a supporters’ club should be about. They are passionate, organised, ambitious and, above all, committed to putting the club first. 

“To see 215 members from across the world come together to join what started as Scunthorpe United fans in Ireland showing their support for the club is testament to the commitment and work done by Bernard to maintain and grow it over the last three decades. Their efforts show the power of collective support and set a standard that all supporters’ groups can be proud to follow.”

The group will be launching another raffle prior to the final home game of the season, aiming to surpass this year’s success. Prizes will include a bottle of Irish Iron whiskey and a match-worn shirt, alongside additional items kindly sourced and donated. The club will be pleased to support the initiative with a prize contribution.

Scunthorpe United would like to place on record our sincere thanks to every single member of Irish Iron for their continued loyalty, generosity and unwavering backing.

Supporters interested in joining Irish Iron ahead of next season are encouraged to look out for further details as the group continues its drive towards 250 members, with membership for the 2026-27 season frozen at £10 for another season. There's no need to be Irish, or live in Ireland, to be part of the group, everyone is welcome as long as they have a healthy love of all things Iron!