Community heroes are set to be rewarded with complimentary Preston North End match day tickets in a new initiative funded by the proceeds of crime.

Lancashire Constabulary and Preston North End Community Education Trust have joined forces to set up ‘Community Champions’ where fans can nominate deserving members of the community to receive a free ticket to a home game.

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As part of the initiative, four season tickets (two adult and two junior tickets) have been purchased through the Proceeds of Crime Act which allows the police to apply for cash to be seized from criminals who have made their money from ill-gotten gains.

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The season tickets for the 2021/22 season will be allocated to a different kind-hearted member of the community for each home game, before being passed on for the next fixture.

The lucky fans will be selected from nominations made on the Preston North End Police Twitter account where members of the public can nominate someone they know who has done something to benefit their community.

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Dedicated football officer PC Paul Elliott from Lancashire Police said: “This initiative is all about making positive changes to create a safer, stronger and more resilient community and I hope it can give some respite or relief to people who are struggling, whether they’re working hard in the community or can’t afford to go to the game.

“Football is more than just the 90 minutes on the pitch, it can be a great way of getting out of the house and finding some escapism. We have encouraged community spirit for the past 18 months where people have pulled together and we hope that it can continue through this initiative.”

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PNECET Deputy CEO Harriet Creighton-Levis added: “We are proud to be working alongside Lancashire Police on this new ticketing initiative. Inviting deserving people to Deepdale who might not ordinarily be recognised for their selfless acts has the potential to connect new and existing supporters while inspiring people through the power of PNE and football as a whole.”

If you wish to nominate someone to receive the season cards for a home matchday this season, please email community@pne.com.

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