Arriva Trains Wales | YOUNG FOOTBALLERS FOCUS ON RAILWAY SAFETY

YOUNG FOOTBALLERS FOCUS ON RAILWAY SAFETY

Young footballers in the Ebbw Valley have secured a sponsorship deal with train operator Arriva Trains Wales. The sponsorship is part of an initiative aimed at encouraging participation in sport and boosting safety awareness among young people.

Cwm Youth FC Cwm Welfare Youth Football Club, near Ebbw Vale received their new playing kit at a presentation held in the presence of local MP Dai Davies, Councillor Keith Barnes and officers from the British Transport Police (BTP) Neighbourhood Policing Team based in Newport.

The new kit co-promotes the ‘Track Off’ organisation, which exists to support train operating companies and British Transport Police in their efforts to promote railway safety in schools.

Terry Crump, youth team manager said: “We are delighted to kick off the new season with Arriva Trains Wales on board. The sponsorship will support the development of youth football in the village and ensure the stay off the tracks message is widely spread amongst parents, families and friends.”

He continued: “This is the first time in 38 years we’ve been able to form a youth side and with most of the boys from Cwm, there’s a strong team spirit. Two team members are currently representing the Newport County AFC academy and we are hopeful this will encourage others to aspire to similar achievements.”

During the presentation, the squad watched a real life documentary presented by BTP Education Officer Andy Evans and produced by friends and relatives of a young boy tragically killed by a train whilst trespassing on a Leicestershire railway line.

The documentary highlighted the impact such a tragedy can have on individuals and communities following such an event.

Mike Hurley, head of franchise for Arriva Trains Wales, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the club at this important time with the forthcoming opening of the new railway line. Our involvement is about encouraging young people to participate in positive leisure activity and respecting the railway environment.”

He continued: “Passenger services are due to resume for the first time since 1962 and it’s important that everyone is aware of the dangers posed by trespass on the tracks. The team are demonstrating their commitment to spreading the safety message and we wish them well for the forthcoming season in the Gwent Youth League.”

If you are interested in joining the team, please call team manager Terry Crump on 07919 533903. Matches are played every Sunday. Training is held every Tuesday and Thursday between 5.00pm and 6.00pm at the Cwm Betterment playing fields, Cwm.