The Shrimps celebrated their annual Community Day on Saturday ahead of their 3-0 win over Burton Albion in Sky Bet League One.
The day aimed to celebrate the work that Morecambe FC Community Sports do in and around the local community, whilst also having the opportunity to give something back to the schools, partners, and community groups that they work alongside throughout the year.
The Community Sports team gave out 1,591 free tickets to local causes and schools, and those in attendance were from a variety of sessions such as Walking Football, Special Educational Needs football, Girls Kicks, Divert programme, Marsh Community Centre, Beaumont College and Bay Star Academy! As well as the many primary schools that Community Sports work with.
The day commenced with a fantastic performance from local musicians The Baybeat Street Band, with their rendition of classic Morecambe FC anthem ‘Bring Me Sunshine’, which had people up on their feet, singing along.
Community Sports’ inflatable goal competition was in full swing outside the Think Interiors JB’s Bar, and those with the top five highest scores were invited to take part in a half-time penalty shootout on the pitch. Winner, Noel, walked away with a signed ball from the Morecambe FC first-team, which he looked delighted to be awarded.
The sun stayed out for our Shrimpettes, who were back for their first performance in two years. They put on a brilliant show in front of the Stadium, before heading out onto the pitch to welcome the two teams out of the tunnel, ahead of kick-off.
Community day ended on a high, as goals from Arthur Gnahoua, Adam Phillips and Cole Stockton secured a win for the home side, it was fantastic to see the Dennison Stand filled with cheering faces, the stadium was really brought to life.
A special mention to Shrimps mascot Christie the Cat as well as the Mazuma Bot, who both spent the day with our supporters, old and new, and a thank you to our partners over at Beyond Radio Station, who were out the front of the Stadium, providing music and entertainment throughout the day.
Speaking on the day, members of the community said it has been a brilliant family day out.
“It has been a great start to the Easter holidays, there is plenty going on to keep the children entertained, they’re having a lot of fun!” one said.
“My favourite part was seeing Christie and dancing to the music outside,” a young fan added.
“I think it’s good that they have offered this to members of the community, we probably wouldn’t have had the chance to come along to a game otherwise.
“I definitely want to bring my children to watch again. I think the win helped, but the atmosphere has been great all day.” said another.
Head of Community, Janet Preston, says the day was a success and that she and the team are looking forward to continuing the work they do throughout the community.
“Myself, Stuart, and the team have had really good feedback about our Community Day on Saturday,” she said.
“We were really pleased to see so many of our schools and partners at the game. It had a fantastic atmosphere and was a great way to celebrate the work that takes place all year.
“We really hope to build on the success for our next Community Day, and welcome many more into the Morecambe FC family.”
Thank you to everyone who came down to show their support, and to those who were there for the first time, we hope to welcome you back to the Mazuma stadium very soon!