Local children in Glasgow where joined by former Scotland footballers Darren Jackson and Suzanne Grant today to celebrate Lidl UK’s partnership with the Scottish Football Association (Scottish FA).

As the Lead Partner of the Scottish FA’s Skills Centres, Lidl’s investment will provide opportunities in communities all over Scotland for boys and girls aged 5 to 12 years old, of all abilities, to participate in football in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

Working together, Lidl the Scottish FA aim to grow the number of players taking part in the Skills Centre programme, and ultimately the recreational game, and encourage more girls to take part through girls-only Lidl Skills Centres.

As part of Lidl’s commitment to increasing children’s participation in football, they will also be hosting a series of Family Days across the three year partnership.

Jim Fleeting, Scottish FA Director of Football Development, said: “This is an exciting new partnership that will benefit grassroots football in Scotland, and we are delighted that Darren and Suzanne could join us today to help work towards our collective objective of increasing football participation across the country.

“Lidl are a growing retailer, and their presence in communities all over Scotland will enhance the efforts of the Scottish FA and our partners to encourage more young boys and girls to get involved in the game, and deliver great experiences in fun, safe, environments.”

Ryan McDonnell, Lidl UK Purchasing Director said: “This is a fantastic initiative that allows Lidl to get involved in grassroots football, giving boys and girls the opportunity to immerse themselves in the game.

“Through the broad network of 90 stores across Scotland we have access to so many communities and this partnership will allow us to build on that and give something back.”

Scottish football stars on hand as Glasgow school children given a lesson in ‘The Beautiful Game’