Chester FC Community Trust welcomed 50 girls from 10 primary schools for a morning of coaching and games as part of The FA’s #LetGirlsPlay Biggest Ever Football Session.

Organised in partnership with Chester School Sport Partnership, the event at King George V Community Sports Hub saw girls from Years 3 and 4 who don’t currently play the game, link up with thousands of other girls across the country as part of the #LetGirlsPlay campaign, which aims to ensure girls have the same opportunities as boys in schools and clubs.

Only 63 percent of schools currently offer girls’ football in PE lessons. Due to this, and the drive for more equality in schools and clubs, Chester FC Community Trust, supported by credit card provider MBNA, have been empowering a change in sports, delivering sessions through its women’s and girl’s programmes. These programmes engage 200 players each week, with sessions including Weetabix Wildcats, Girls’ Player Development Centre, FA Girls’ Emerging Talent Centre and Chester FC Women’s teams.

Victoria Dowd, MBNA Community Investment Partnership Manager, said: “The power of sports to drive positive change and empower young girls is immeasurable. MBNA is honoured to join forces with Chester FC Community Trust in supporting this initiative, encouraging equality and creating lasting impact in the lives of these girls.

“The club’s Trust is a driving force in championing women and girls’ in sports, and the work they do within the community is truly empowering.”

Jim Green, Chief Executive at Chester FC Community Trust, said: “The campaign has been a huge success and the turn out the event was brilliant. Being able to coach and work with young girls who wouldn’t usually play football, and see their interest in the sport develop, is what our sessions like this are all about.

“We’re proud to have MBNA by our side supporting our women in sport initiatives, and we will always champion equality within sports.”