By John Baron
Councillors last night heard how FC Farsley is aiming to be at the heart of the community, following its takeover by the Stockdale family in December.
FC Farsley managing director Josh Greaves spoke to councillors on the Outer West Community Committee about the launch of FC Farsley in The Community, a Community Interest Company delivering activities for people of all ages.
He said FC Farsley was a phoenix club following the liquidation of Farsley Celtic.
Mr Greaves said the 90-Minute Project – where vulnerable young people are supported by activities at the club, police and youth services – was an example of positive work going on at the club.
“We are working with a lot of community organisations,” he told councillors. “If there is anything we can work together on, we are more than happy to do that.
“We have a commitment to the community and we want to get the good name of the club back to where it was. It has been a very torrid time.”
Mr Greaves said a fun inflatable day for families at the club yesterday had seen almost 1,000 people through the doors of the sports hall. He added announcements about a new programme of work from FC Farsley in the Community would be announced soon.
Councillor Peter Carlill (Lab, Calverley & Farsley) praised developments at the club.
He said: “It’s been great to go in and see the work you have been doing there and to see your work with the wider community. It’s looking fantastic for the years to come.”
Cllr Craig Timmins (Lab, Calverley & Farsley) added: “I’ve been really impressed with the new leadership and the work you’re doing with the local community and also with engaging nearby residents. It’s something that’s not really happened before.
“It would be great to get a men’s first team back up and running to go alongside your very successful deaf, women’s and development sections. It’s early days but there are some really positive signs.”
Councillor Kevin Ritchie (Lab, Bramley & Stanningley) said he was a supporter, but was also interested in the work the club was planning to do with post 16 people not in education, employment and training (NEET) as his ward had some of the highest figures in the city.
“I wish you all the best,” he added.
The Outer West Community Committee is made up of 12 councillors from four wards. It features seven Labour, three Conservative, one Green and one Reform councillor, along with community representatives. The committee met at Oak Church in Stanningley on Monday evening.
The full agenda can be read here.
Stalwarts honoured
Three Farsley legends have been honoured by having training pitches at Throstle Nest named after them, FC Farsley has announced.
Pitches used by the club’s development sides and the wider community have been dedicated to Don Holmes, Margaret Lobley and John Palmer – stalwarts who have given so much to football in Farsley over the years.
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