Beacon Hockey Club, based in Walsall, is purchasing new training equipment to enable more young people to enjoy hockey, thanks to the support from the Cannock-based business investment specialist.

With more than 140 of Beacon’s 250 members aged below 18, club officials will use the funds to buy kit to be used by the next generation of hockey players.

Providing strategic loan and equity packages of up to £1m to generate growth, create local job opportunities and bolster the economy, UKSE’s local team based in Cannock make community donations on the back of their work supporting SMEs across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Staffordshire and Telford.

Mike Slater, Beacon Hockey Club Treasurer, said: “The donation from UKSE is welcome as it will help with the purchase of equipment to be used by young people, many of whom are playing hockey regularly for the first time.

“We are planning to move to a new permanent home pitch and training facilities at Queen Mary's Grammar School in Walsall early next year, so the support from UKSE will help us in achieving our goal of getting many more young members on board.

“A huge thank you to UKSE for supporting our club as without donations like this we would be unable to help more children get into hockey, promoting a fitter, healthier lifestyle.”

UKSE area manager Steve Grice said: “Beacon Hockey Club is a great community sports club providing valuable opportunities for young people in Walsall and the surrounding area to be active by playing sport.

“UKSE is committed to making a positive impact in the communities it operates in, and the donation will enable the club to continue its incredible work in encouraging more youngsters to get involved.”

Providing strategic loan and equity packages of up to £1m to generate growth, create jobs and bolster the economy, UKSE’s team based in Keys Business Village, Cannock, supports SMEs across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Staffordshire and Telford.

Celebrating its 50 year anniversary this year, UKSE makes equity investments, ensuring management stays in control and offering a flexible exit policy. Unsecured loans up to £200,000 are also available, often without the need for personal guarantees.

Recent beneficiaries of UKSE West Midlands support include Liberty Jamboree, a youth service organisation working across Lichfield and the surrounding areas, provides tailored support for children, young people and young adults with disabilities.

UKSE West Midlands also supported a state-of-the-art recording studio at a flagship new YMCA North Staffordshire youth hub in Stoke-on-Trent which opened in July.