Hundreds of pupils given free Accrington Stanley shirt in sixth year of giveaway

Hundreds of primary school pupils have received free Accrington Stanley shirts and goodie bags in this year’s Big Shirt Giveaway.

The annual event saw the year three children from 39 schools in the borough receive shirt and a goodie bag, sponsored by North Lancs Training Group and Accrington and Rossendale College, including a flag, a bottle of water, a lunch box, fresh fruit, a picture of the first team squad.

Taking place for the sixth year running, youngsters got the chance to meet the players and see the pitch up close, having their pictures taken in the Studio.co.uk Eric Whalley Family Stand.

With the support of schools across Hyndburn, this programme has now given away just over 7,200 shirts and goodie bags; it is designed to encourage youngsters in the borough to take an interest in sport, get involved in sport, and feel connected to their local professional League One team.

The shirts were sponsored by Studio and Accrington Stanley Community Trust.

Manager of Accrington Stanley, John Coleman, said: "As a club we think that this is one of the most important days of the year.

"It's a chance to integrate with the community, the schools, the children and the parents of Hyndburn.

Sean McConville (L) and Mayor Cllr Abdul Khan (R) handing over a shirt to a year three pupil at the Wham Stadium

"We have been doing it for six years now, with every year three pupil getting a shirt, which in the time of financial austerity which we are going through at the moment, it's a good gesture by the club and it builds bonds with the local community, and hopefully we will be seeing these children back at the Wham Stadium."

MP Sara Britcliffe with year three pupils at the Wham Stadium

The Mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Abdul Khan, said: "This is a great initiative from Accrington Stanley and thanks go to the club for supporting their community.

"I'm sure the children are really grateful for the shirts, and the trip to the stadium, and well done to all involved in organising it."

The Club has thanked sponsors and those who provided donations for their support, as well as those who were instrumental in organising the event.