Community is key for busy Lairds

Cammell Laird are reaching out to build links with locals in the Birkenhead and Rock Ferry communities.

The Lairds launched a number of schemes in October to showcase the Evo-Stik NPL First Division North club to residents on their doorstep as part of a wider long term community objective. Lairds say they've been redoubling their efforts to build the club's profile as many locals still consider them a 'works team' connected to the famous shipyard.

Apart from fresh efforts to engage with local primary and secondary schools by sending along their FA qualified coaches to work with youngsters, the Lairds have teamed up with Wirral Partnership Homes and the Merseyside not for profit organisation Helping Young People Everywhere (HYPE), pictured, to set up FA registered JFO coaching courses for teenagers.

HYPE’s JFO course is designed for young people aged between 14 and 19 and focuses on mini-soccer, allowing them to learn more about the coaching, rules and refereeing skills needed to organise successful football festivals and tournaments.

The course, which aims to develop the core organisational and communication skills of young people, took place at Kirklands last week and Lairds say graduates will now be able to go on to take their Level 1 football coaching or refereeing courses.

Cammell Laird’s Press and Community Officer Gary Langley said: "We were delighted to announce a host of events as part of our 'Lairds in the Community' programme. As part of the club's mini re-organisation over the summer one of our main objectives as a club was to connect with the Rock Ferry and wider Birkenhead community.

"Not just because we have a lot to offer them but also because we want people to know that they have a local Non-League team in their town. There is a perception that we are still a works football team. While we are rightly proud of our association with the local shipyard it is a lesser known fact that we are actually an independent football club representing the Birkenhead area.

"We want to be an active part of our community by developing new relationships with local organisations so we can offer Non-League football as well as coaching and facilities to people who may not even be aware of what is on their doorstep."