A Hayling Island football club, which gives children the chance to be active and make lifelong friends, is sporting a brand new kit for the latest season.

The store manager of the local co-operative retail store got in touch with the team last year as they wanted to help promote healthy active lifestyles in the community.

The store which is part of Southern Co-op donated £600 to Hayling St. Andrews under Sevens who were in need of some new kit but they have had to wait till after the latest lockdown to don their new strip.

Neil Mckenna, Store Manager at The Co-operative Food – Hayling Island, in Elm Grove, said: “We wanted to support something a bit different and, having been in touch with the coach, it was clear that the younger group of children from the club needed some support as they had hand me down kits.

“With the pandemic restrictions easing, the manufacturers were able to complete the kit and the children are really happy. We are also hoping we can raise enough this year to either repeat the kits for next season or to further their facilities.”

The under seven players wore the kit for the first time on 24 April.

Coach Colin Barham said: “The reaction to the new kit has been amazing and has given the kids a massive boost as they all love the kit.

“To be honest this year has been difficult as I’ve lost some children along the way due to all the lockdowns and restrictions but football has helped massively in the mental health of the children I currently have. It’s great seeing them play and make hopefully lifelong friends.

“I honestly believe without local football clubs like ours, children would lose a massive opportunity to play a sport, make friends and learn what it means to be part of a team.

“People can get involved in many ways such as coaching, parent helpers, committee members – without the supply of these people the club wouldn’t exist.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Southern Co-op for the support and funding which is making a difference to every child in the photo and at the club.”

Southern Co-op and its colleagues aim to help communities be healthier, safer, more inclusive and/or greener by supporting local causes.

Local causes near to a Southern Co-op retail store or funeral branch can now apply for the next round of local funding applications.

More information on the funding can be found at southern.coop/.