Participants from Derby County Community Trust’s Premier League Kicks programme made the journey to Preston North End on Saturday, joining forces with the Lilywhites' Community and Education Trust to raise awareness of racism and bring together participants from different backgrounds and cultures.

The event was organised by Preston as part of their Kick It Out fixture and saw ten participants make the journey, playing in a 7-a-side friendly against participants from Preston’s PL Kicks programme before the main event – cheering on the Rams in the Sky Bet Championship fixture.

Zack Yates, PL Kicks Co-ordinator, said:

“It was a real pleasure to accept Preston’s invitation on Saturday and a fantastic opportunity to bring young people from a range of backgrounds together through the power of football.

“It wasn’t just about the football side of things, it was brilliant to see participants from both sides mix together and talk about the different issues within both communities.

“This was the first time that we’ve been able to do something on this scale since Covid restrictions lifted and certainly something we’ll be looking to do more of.

“For one participant in particular, the day was a first. 13 year old Josue moved across to the UK from Central America straight into lockdown measures! This was his first ever visit to a football stadium and the first ever competitive fixture he’s played in.

“He’s been coming to our Arboretum PL Kicks sessions week in week out and has formed new friendships very quickly.

“I’d like to extend my thanks to the team at Preston North End who hosted the day and made us feel welcome – it was a very enjoyable experience and one a lot of our participants will remember for a long time to come.”

PL Kicks