On This Day: Football league planned in Ellesmere Port

The not-for-profit organisation Leisure Leagues announced the establishment of a six-a-side competition at Vauxhall Motors Sports and Social Club, with the league scheduled to commence on June 13 between 6pm and 8pm.

Initially, the league would feature one league consisting of eight teams, with hopes of expanding to three divisions in the future.

Signing up to compete in the league was free of charge, with teams required to pay a standard fee of £35 per week to cover pitch hire, referees, and equipment.

Any surplus profits generated from the league would be donated to various charitable causes.

Dan Beddard, the sports development manager at Leisure Leagues, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: "We are a non-profit, fully Government-backed trust that have leagues running all over the world working tirelessly to play our part in getting the nation moving again, whilst promoting good physical and mental wellbeing and maintaining a good community feel to our competitions."

He highlighted the league's commitment to community and charity, adding: "We are the only national provider of small sided leagues which is committed to putting all its surplus profits into good causes."

The beneficiaries of the league included notable charities such as the Dogs Trust, Zoe’s Place, Blind Children UK, Molly Olly’s Wishes, and Cancer Research UK.

Mr Beddard also detailed the simplicity of entering the league, saying: "All you need to do is get together with some of your mates and form a team, then enter online in two minutes."

He encouraged potential players to arrive early on game day, where they would be greeted by a Leisure Leagues official and provided with all necessary equipment.

The initiative aimed not only to foster a sense of community but also to promote fitness and fun among participants.

This article was originally written by Gary Porter and published on May 20, 2021.