BARRY Comprehensive school will be among the first schools in Wales to deliver the new Lidl Play More Football initiative, an innovate youth football programme launched this week and supported by Wales manager Chris Coleman.

Lidl Play More Football has been developed in partnership between Lidl, the Football Association of Wales and the Welsh Football Trust. The programme will develop young people to provide them with the skills to plan, organise and deliver inclusive, fun and easy-to-play football activities to engage their peers who do not currently play the game. An increased focus will also be placed on encouraging more young girls to participate in the sport.

Lidl Play More Football is the first of its kind to be launched in Wales and will enable 30,000 young people to play football nationwide over the next three years whilst also developing the next generation of coaches and leaders.

Speaking from the launch event at Dragon Park Wales manager Chris Coleman said: “Interest in the Wales national team is higher than ever thanks to our qualification for Euro 2016 so it’s fantastic that Lidl, the FA of Wales and the Welsh Football Trust have recognised the unique opportunity we have to grow football in Wales.

"I’m delighted to see schools from Cardiff and Barry getting involved and becoming some of the first to deliver the Lidl Play More Football programme.

"I’m sure many others will follow. The programme can capitalise on our nation’s excitement to engage more young people to participate in football, through both leading sessions and playing. I’m passionate about creating football opportunities for young people in Wales and so I’m delighted to give my backing to the launch of this smart new initiative.”

Ryan McDonnell, Lidl UK Purchasing Director said: “This is a fantastic new initiative that allows Lidl to get involved in grassroots football, giving boys and girls the opportunity to immerse themselves in the game. Through our broad network of stores across Wales, we have access to so many communities and this partnership will allow us to build on that and give something back.”

For information on how to register for Lidl Play More Football visit www.welshfootballtrust.org.uk/LidlPlayMore