Moors in the Community’s Disability Sessions for local youngsters are already thriving just three months after the project was launched.

Young people between the ages of 11-16 from all around County Durham are benefitting from sessions delivered by coaches qualified in FA Level 2 in disability coaching.

The weekly sessions are held every Thursday evening between 5.30pm and 6.30pm at Kirk Merrington Primary School and are already attracting a near-capacity turnout of youngsters with a range of disabilities.

“The response we have had, and the popularity of our Disability Sessions has been superb,” admitted Moors’ Community Development Manager, Luke Cowie.

“This Programme is delivering for youngster all over our region and offering them the opportunity to access high quality coaching which is valuable to those who are unable to participate in mainstream football.

“Over 16 young people are training with us every Thursday now, improving their football skills, meeting new friends and boosting their confidence – it’s just been brilliant.

“Credit has to go to our coaches, Sam Dawson and Christian Norman, from Bishop Auckland College who both offer a vast amount of knowledge working with children who have additional needs.

“They have created a fun environment where the children can be around others in a similar situation and are able to fully enjoy the benefits that football brings.”

Moors in the Community have been able to resource the popular Disability Sessions thanks to the ongoing support of Guardian Alliance, whose backing has allowed the Programme to grow so quickly.

“We are lucky to have such fantastic backing as we do from Guardian Alliance,” Cowie added.

“With Guardian Alliance’s support, we are looking for the best way to invest their donation and we hope to be able to provide a Spennymoor Town kit, at a minimal cost at most, that will promote an even greater sense of belonging to our Club and community.

“Without their backing, along with our funding from the National League Trust, we simply wouldn’t have been able to provide these important and valuable sessions.

“Many of the parents of the children who attend are amazed at what we are providing and wonder why nothing else like this is closer to home for them.

“Hopefully, over the next couple of months we can double or even triple the number of sessions we are able to offer and truly show that football really is for all.”

If you’re interested in getting involved or you would like more information, email [email protected]