BOLTON Wanderers and Bolton at Home (BAH) have teamed up for a football scheme designed to get more young people active.

The Bolton Wanderers Community Trust and the social housing landlord will kick off the Premier League Kicks initiative this month, working with hundreds of teenagers across Tonge Moor, Westhoughton and Farnworth.

The project — made possible by a £15,000 investment from BAH, matched by the Premier League — will offer professional football coaching as well as music and art activities for youngsters aged 14 to 19.

As well as getting fit, the young people will also get the change to take part in a range of qualifications and volunteering opportunities.

Jon Lord, chief executive of BAH, said the ultimate aim is to create safer, stronger and more respectful communities.

He added: “We felt it was important that we as an organisation were involved, as we have knowledge and community links in the areas where many of these youngsters live.

“We urge as many young people as possible to sign up. We see enormous benefits for them, as well as for the wider community.

“There will be opportunities to engage in constructive activities, further develop their skills through volunteering and coaching, as well as having fun taking part in the activities on offer.”

Ian Laithwaite, head of Bolton Wanderers Community Trust, said they were delighted to work with BAH on the project.

He added: “The trust provides a range of sport, health and educational activities to thousands of young people across Bolton each year and the Kicks project is a key element of our community cohesion work.

“We plan to work with Bolton at Home, using the brand of Bolton Wanderers, to engage young people and encourage them to become involved in the programme of activities within their local community.”

Anyone who wishes to get involved can sign up by emailing awarriner@bwct.

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