Freemasons' football backing is great news for Eastbourne children

Freemasons have paid for equipment for young footballers linked to Eastbourne Rangers

Football provision for under-nine girls and boys in Eastbourne has received a kick-start.

It’s come in the form of support and sponsorship from the women members of the Lewes-based Sussex Lodge of the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons.

The sponsorship will allow Eastbourne Rangers Youth (U5s-U9s) to buy equipment needed to deliver two football sessions per week.

The pandemic restrictions have seen physical activities restricted and this will support football sessions taking place Mondays (10.30-11.30) and Sundays (11am-midday) on the astro pitch at the Tennis Cafe, Gildredge Park.

The sessions are an important way to help support children’s mental and physical health.

James Hopkins, coach of Eastbourne Rangers, said: “We are so grateful to the women freemasons of the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons for their kind and generous sponsorship of this really important community youth programme.

“With this sponsorship from HFAF we can now offer fun and safe football sessions for children to enjoy on a weekly basis.”

Christine Chapman, Grand Master of HFAF and a resident of Eastbourne, said: “We ‘re delighted to help James in this venture.

Now more than ever it is so important to encourage youngsters to participate in healthy exercise and team sports”

The club are delighted by the partnership and say it will benefit many youngsters.

Contact James on 07595 431309 or [email protected] to find out about Rangers’ youth section.