Helping to give racism the red card

12.01.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 23rd Oct 2007

Northampton's street footballers are giving racism the red card as the Autumn football festival celebrates Black History Month.

Every week the nationally recognised street football project teaches football skills, fair play and teamwork skills to over 250 boys and girls of all ages across the town. To reward their commitment Northampton Borough Council regularly organises football festivals to give street footballers the chance to meet young people from other communities and areas, make new friends and enjoy representing their area.

This Autumn's event will have a positive message. As well as playing in a tournament and getting extra training from Northampton Town Football Club, there will be a short talk from the national Kick Racism Out Of Football campaign. Officers from the Black Police Association will explain how football can make a positive difference.

Cllr. Brendan Glynane

Liberal Democrat Councillor Brendan Glynane, Northampton Borough Council portfolio holder for community engagement said: "The street football project has been a huge success for Northampton Borough Council. Everyone is welcome to join in, and you can see the positive difference it has made to young people across the town.

"Unfortunately racism still exists in our society, but we can use something as simple as football to get across some very important messages about community and fairness. All of the players show such a great attitude every week, demonstrating fair play and a real love for the game."

The street football project is always keen to get more people involved either as players or volunteers helping to run sessions. If you would like more information about what is happening and how to get involved please call Northampton Borough Council's street football officer, Gavin Lewis on 01604 8384548 or email glewis@northampton.gov.uk