A new girls’ football team secured a great result when they applied to a housing association for help with their kit.

The Bedale under-10s can now keep warm during winter sessions thanks to the smart new training kit funded by a grant through the Broadacres' community development fund.

Coach Rachel Bilham says the new gear will help the girls feel part of the club and ensure no child loses out because of family finances.

“We are a new team and have been really pleased with the interest shown and the commitment of the girls. Some of them had never kicked a football before and lacked even basic kit such as long socks to cover their shinpads, with the new kit they feel like proper footballers.”

The Northern Echo: The Bedale girls in their kit

The team move up to nine-a-side next season and Rachel believes the new kit and the benefits of regular sport will help encourage others to step forward.

“In just a few weeks we’ve noticed a big difference in the fitness and skills of the girls,” she said. “It’s much more than simply learning how to kick a ball though, the girls are developing important social, teamwork and leadership skills as well.”

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Bedale Juniors provides football for more than 350 boys and girls aged from three to 18. Details can be found on their club website https://www.bedalejuniorfc.com/

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by a panel consisting of Broadacres’ residents.

To apply to the Fund visit https://www.broadacres.org.uk/customer-area/getting-involved/community-development-fund/