ASPIRING footballers are suiting up in style thanks to a new set of kits.
Appleton AFC U15s, from Cheshire, have received the fresh kit through Royal Mail’s Kits 4 Kids scheme, which supports youth sports teams.
The club was nominated by Royal Mail employee Andrew Daniels, whose brother Christian coaches the U15s team.
Greg Sage, Royal Mail’s deputy director for corporate affairs and ESG, said: "Our 130,000 people are at the heart of their communities across the UK, and Royal Mail’s Kits 4 Kids gives colleagues the opportunity to show their support and help young people get active in their local area.
"Unwavering pride and passion, forging through all weathers, out in the community – grassroots sport has a lot in common with Royal Mail.
"This exciting new initiative brings the two together and we are delighted to be able to support Appleton AFC."
Mr Daniels, a long-serving postie, nominated the team as part of Royal Mail’s drive to support the communities where its employees live and work.
His brother, Christian Daniels, said the scheme has made a real difference on and off the pitch.
Mr Daniels said: "My brother encouraged us to apply for the Kits 4 Kids grant, and we were absolutely made up to receive the email saying we’d been successful.
"The kit has made such a difference to the lads, who now turn up every Saturday in their brand-new tracksuits.
"We were unbeaten in our last six matches of the season, and I’m sure that’s not a coincidence."
The Kits 4 Kids scheme was launched in response to requests from Royal Mail and Parcelforce employees across the UK, many of whom wanted to support their local youth sports teams.
Appleton AFC, founded in 1974, is one of Cheshire’s largest grassroots clubs, proudly holding 3 Star FA accreditation.
The club has more than 900 players across 56 teams from Under 5s to Under 18s, competing in several leagues including the Warrington Junior Football League and the Cheshire Women’s & Youth Football League.
The Under 16s currently play in the Warrington Junior Soccer League.
Coach Christian Daniels is also encouraging young players to join the team as it continues to develop and compete.