A number of local heroes will be celebrated at the Preston North End match against Bristol City on Saturday (13 January).

The initiative is being organised by Preston North End Community and Education Trust (PNECET). Part of the EFL’s Community Weekend, the event is a chance for PNECET to showcase its initiatives and shine a light on the club’s work beyond the football pitch to be a force for positive change in the city.

Read more: Big PNE Sleep Out sees wet weather braved at Deepdale

Six PNECET programme participants have been chosen as Community Champions for the day. They’ll be hosted in a private box and will take part in a number of different activities prior to the match and at half-time, when one of them will be interviewed pitchside.

Players will show their support by wearing PNECET t-shirts during the warm-up. Some of these shirts will be signed by the players and auctioned off after the game, with proceeds going back into PNECET.

An increased number of Community tickets have been handed out across PNECET programmes for the game, ensuring more people than ever have the opportunity to experience matchday at Deepdale.

Read more: Former Preston North End goalkeeper subjected to ‘disgusting, prolonged’ abuse

Harriet Creighton-Levis, Deputy CEO at PNECET, said: “It is fantastic to be supported by Preston North End FC to host a community day on an official matchday to celebrate the life-enhancing work that the Trust delivers on a daily basis. We will see and hear gratifying stories from some of our participants who have positively benefited from our programmes.

“I would like to place on record our thanks to our stakeholders, funders and patrons who support us as a charity annually. It is a significant time as we reflect as an organisation on the success over the last three years and now look forward to releasing our new strategy, which will be officially launched February 2024.”

Meet the Champions

Casey was selected for his exceptional commitment in the PNECET Community Ambassador Programme. Over six weeks, he volunteered at the SVP Chorley Buddies Food Club. Casey showed a real passion and desire to help, creating a positive environment for those in need.

Hannah Towne was chosen by the Higher Education and Recruitment Lead for showing great qualities since starting her course. She’s supported a number of activities, including a Diwali event, in a professional manner with an exemplary attitude and desire to succeed.

Malcolm Rae was picked due to being a vital contributor to the Sporting Memories programme – creating quizzes and organising activities – and he even attends sessions with his wife, Joyce. He also uses his extensive network to arrange for guest speakers to attend sessions.

Christine Gardener was selected for how she goes out of her way to ensure that other participants enjoy every session. She is always offering a helping hand to whoever needs support and she helps to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Zain was chosen for engaging with the Champions programme for the past six months because he wanted to make positive life choices to reduce his offending behaviour and improve his physical and mental wellbeing. Despite some knock backs, his resilience has kept him positive and motivated.

Bilal Sabir was picked for his participation in PNECET’s refugee football provision, where he has learnt essential life skills. The camaraderie developed through football not only helped him forge lasting friendships but also allowed him to experience new opportunities.

Subscribe: You can now opt-in to receive Blog Preston news updates through Whatsapp.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines