Football support

ONE OF the regular excuses for young people indulging in anti-social behaviour is that they are bored. Some claim there is nothing for them to do outside school.

But there are people working hard to change that outlook and offer opportunities for youngsters to take part in positive activities in their communities.

One such example is a football club set up on Newark’s Hawtonville estate by Police Community Support Officer Amanda Wheatcroft.

“These kids get so much from playing,” she said. “It gives them confidence, discipline and enjoyment when otherwise they would be playing in the street with no supervision.

“I’m not saying they would be up to no good, but they would be bored.”

The club, and other similar projects, are credited with helping to reduce anti-social behaviour in the area.

It seems, however, there is a question mark over the club’s future.

Inevitably, in the current economic climate, it’s down to money.

Newark and Sherwood District Council is having to balance the books and that means its financial support for the coaching sessions may have to be cut.

PCSO Wheatcroft has appealed for a sponsor to step in to ensure the club has a future.

The call goes out yet again for a display of generosity to help others continue good work that has benefits, not just for club members, but also for the community they live in.

It would be a real shame if such a worthwhile project was to fall by the wayside.