Over the past three years, BAE Systems has been an integral part of the continued growth of the AFC Fylde Community Foundation.

The sponsorship of the firm’s Warton branch has helped the AFC Fylde Community Foundation to educate, motivate and inspire future generations to build better communities for all across the Fylde Coast.

Since 2012, BAE Systems has helped fund the Foundation’s work with more than 50 primary schools in the area. With the company’s support, the Foundation has reached more than 82,000 Fylde residents this year alone.

Most recently, BAE Systems funded a match day experience for a nine-year-old AFC Fylde fan, Max, who won a competition to draw the team’s mascot, Syd the Seagull.

Max’s drawing was chosen by the Foundation’s health and wellbeing team and his creativity was rewarded with a full replica home kit, a meet and greet with the players as well as a free hospitality experience on match day. He even got the chance to play on the Kellamergh Park pitch.

Tom Hutton, director of community development at the AFC Fylde Community Foundation, said: “The support of the Warton BAE team has been absolutely crucial in the Foundation’s development over the past few years.

“We are really proud to team up with the company to help even more people across the Fylde Coast. From free sports initiatives for young people to engaging older people through 50+ education, BAE Systems’ support is invaluable. We hope this partnership will help us enrich more people’s lives for many years to come.”

For more information on how to get involved with the AFC Community Foundation please visit www.afcfyldefoundation.co.uk, follow on Twitter @afcfct or call Tom Hutton on 07739 796 101.