As the sun begins to set on 2016, the Clydebank Syrian footballers are wishing Bankies everywhere a very happy Christmas.
More than ten families have been housed in the town and have been adapting to life in their new surroundings – with the help of club director Davie McAleer.
A group were invited to the derby day defeat to Yoker Athletic earlier this season, where they met Davie, who first suggested starting a weekly game of seven-a-sides.
Playing alongside local residents and community workers at West Dunbartonshire Council, the project has gone from strength to strength.
Davie said: “In the year we have remembered the 75th Anniversary of the Clydebank Blitz, when tens of thousands of people from Clydebank were evacuated, we have a small amount of families taking refuge from war right here in Clydebank.
“It’s been a really enjoyable and positive for all of us involved, even if I do end up in goals most weekends!
“To some it might only be a game of football, but it means so much more than that.”
Club sponsor Clydebank Co-operative donated further funds to help with the project and Fiona McInnes, chief executive officer, added: “Football is a mutually understood language which will help to integrate families who have come to Clydebank seeking refuge from war torn countries like Syria.
“This programme is something that the town should be proud of and It shows the true spirit of Clydebank and the Co-op are delighted to have been asked to facilitate.”
