A series of Carlisle United fan volunteers have been recognised as EFL “community heroes”.
The supporters were introduced to the crowd at last weekend’s 0-0 draw with Gillingham.
They received recognition for their work in various aspects of the Blues’ efforts in the community through the club's community sports trust.
It was part of United’s EFL Community Weekend, with one of the fans saluted being Keith Ward for his work leading dementia-friendly United in Memories sessions at Brunton Park.
He said: “I am blown away with being nominated as an EFL Community Hero. I am chuffed to bits and incredibly touched.”
The United in Memories sessions, which offer a range of activities for those living with dementia, as well as an outlet for carers and families, are regularly attended by more than 50 people.
Keith said: “It was something I thought we needed to do as a fan, having been there with my mum who had dementia and one of my friends that came to the football also had dementia.
“Generally, in life, I thought it was something that was needed for people with dementia and as much, maybe more for the families/carers because they need somewhere to go as well.
“I personally think it is a great thing, and I am absolutely over the moon about how well it has gone, it has turned out to be really popular.”
The sessions involve activities like bingo or quizzes, and Carlisle United memorabilia is involved to try and spark memories among the participants.
Trevor Birch, the EFL’s chief executive, said: “Community is a fundamental part of the EFL and its 72 clubs’ identity.
“The work undertaken by clubs has a hugely positive impact on the participants of the various programmes and in the towns and cities where people live.
“Football Clubs are trusted in their communities, and this can help to remove barriers for accessing support. Clubs are successfully addressing challenges linked to health, wellbeing, education and employment as well as helping to keep communities connected.”
Carlisle highlighted other community heroes as part of last weekend’s game. They included John Notman from the Carlisle United Collective – the group of fans who have been collating a huge amount of archive material.
Also recognised was Keith Richardson, from the veterans’ group, Nataly Mason, a girls’ emerging talent volunteer coach, and community sports college student Adyin Hussein.
