It’s been another successful couple of months for community initiatives at Shildon AFC. Once again the free summer holiday activities programme proved very popular, with all the places on this year’s scheme fully booked – we even extended the scheme to two weeks! The programme was open to girls and boys aged 8-12 years and was packed with fun exercise and the opportunity to train and play football at Shildon AFC. Sessions were co-ordinated and run by Bishop Juniors football coaches, and sessions were delivered by our very own Ben Reay and Alastair Stephenson. For a great finish to each week we arranged with a valued sponsor, Santinni, for the children to visit the restaurant for ‘make your own pizzas’ and ice cream! All of this was provided along with breakfast and a healthy lunch every day – all free of charge!
The children at Santinni Restaraunt
This is the fifth year of the programme with close to 200 children participating with over 800 meals being provided over the years! All of this was done in partnership with Hays Travel, Durham County Council’s Fun & Food programme and Bishop Auckland & Shildon Area Action Partnership.
Football activities on the Community Garden and the main pitch.
We also held an open day at the football club whereby parents from Thornhill School were invited to come along, watch and interact with the children in a range of activities in the Community Garden.
Open Day with Thornhill School
Early in July we also held a Community Day celebrating 125 years of the Club being at Dean Street. The day showcased football games across different age groups and featured teams from Bishop Juniors, Hetton Lions, Shildon AFC U18’s & Shildon AFC first team! Local groups also attended giving them the chance to promote their charities/services/activities to the public.
Community Day held on the 1st July 2023
The Club will be holding another activities week this coming October, so watch out for details!