Young people had extra special memories of the Mariners’ win over Manchester United last Wednesday as they led the teams out courtesy of the Grimsby Town Foundation. The complimentary mascot packages were offered to charitable organisations by the foundation. One place was gifted to the NSPCC and another went to a child in foster care, selected by the team at North East Lincolnshire Council’s Children’s Services. 

The football club’s Chief Executive Officer Polly Bancroft was delighted to support. “We wanted to do something special for the Manchester United game and offered free mascot packages to charitable organisations via the Grimsby Town Foundation,” Polly said. “Hopefully, the young people involved had a night they will never forget, just like our players, staff, and supporters. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the council’s children’s services team and the NSPCC.”

Kay McGregor, social worker for the NSPCC, said a 10-year-old girl was chosen to take up the package. “She’s loves football, plays in a local team but doesn’t get to watch it very often,” Kay said. Afterwards, she told her mum it was the best experience of her life. “She said she had the best time being mascot for her home town team against a Premier League side and thanked the club.

“It was a lovely thing for Grimsby Town to do and part of the successful partnership we’ve forged with them. They have been great. “This summer, they have helped with our summer holiday activities with players coming down, supporting communities and families that would struggle to do such things otherwise.”

Jack* was selected as part of the Council’s commitment to celebrating and supporting children in care. His social worker shared how thrilled he was when he learned the news: “He is a passionate and talented young footballer, currently playing for a local grassroots team. His dedication and enthusiasm are remarkable, and he’s a shining example of resilience. I couldn’t have been more excited for him.” Dressed proudly in a full Grimsby Town home kit, Jack said before the match: “I still can’t believe it, I’m so excited!”

Grimsby Town has been a proud and vocal supporter of children in care, becoming the first club to sign up to the Foster Friendly business scheme last year. Over the past 18 months, the club has gifted hundreds of match tickets to children in care and care leavers, and hosted special events to make them feel part of the football community. Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services and a board member of the Grimsby Town Football Club Foundation, attended the match and praised the club’s ongoing commitment: “The club continues to show what true community partnership looks like. Moments like these can have a lasting impact on a child’s confidence and sense of belonging. Their support makes a real difference in the lives of our young people.”

Councillor Margaret Cracknell, Portfolio Holder for Children and Education added: “We’re incredibly grateful to Grimsby Town Football Club for continuously showing what being a corporate and community parent is all about. Since signing up to be our first Foster Friendly business they have gone above and beyond for the children in our care, and we can’t thank them enough.” The Mariners made history as they triumphed over United in a dramatic penalty shootout at Blundell Park in the first meeting of the two clubs in 77 years.

*Names have been changed to protect their identity.

For more information on the Grimsby Town Foundation, please visit www.grimsbytownfoundation.co.uk

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