Lossiemouth United FC aids community during cold snap

Lossiemouth United FC Aids Community During Cold Snap

A town football club has been praised for helping the local community during “exceptionally tough” conditions amid the ongoing cold snap. Lossiemouth United FC turned out in force earlier this week to help clear “very icy” paths around Lossiemouth High School.

More than 800 people reacted to a social media post from Lossiemouth Community Council, praising the football club for their efforts against the ice. Dozens commented to commend the team, including school janitor Martin Inkson, who was “very grateful and humbled” by their contribution. He added that their efforts would “make my job a lot easier tomorrow.”

The statement from Lossiemouth Community Council noted that the “fantastic response” to their appeal for help left the group “truly humbled.” A spokesperson offered a “huge thank you” to club chairman Alex Lauriston and “all the Lossiemouth United Football Club family.”

Community Support and Activities

Lossiemouth United FC braved tough conditions to clear paths around town. The social media post mentioned, “Alex said it was a good cardio workout for the loons and it certainly was for the rest of us – spreading grit is an art it seems.”

“Yes, we could all have sat at home and moaned that the council should do it. Or we could acknowledge that the council guys have enough to do across Moray, in exceptionally tough conditions, and we can all do our bit to help,” the post added.

The football club also opened its social club to provide respite for families stuck at home due to school closures. They offered games, hot drinks, cold drinks, and more.

Community Engagement

Lossiemouth United FC’s Social Club is central to its community efforts. Club secretary John Todd said the decision was made to give parents breathing space during a stressful time. “Families that are stuck in the house, especially more vulnerable ones, will be feeling the strain of having kids at home all the time,” he said.

John has been involved in Lossiemouth United for over 25 years, initially as a player and later on the club’s board. He noted that the public quickly “embraced” Lossiemouth United and their work in the local area.

“We’ve got a different kind of ethos now,” he said. “There’s a solidarity there, where if we want to get something done, let’s just do it.”

Charity and Fundraising Efforts

This year, Lossiemouth United FC has engaged in various charity and community work. They have given Christmas gifts to sheltered housing residents and raised funds for the Scottish Cot Death Trust through a legends game.

The club has also supported the Ladybird Group nursery and opened the social club for Lossiemouth Community Council’s festive event. They donated a pool table to the Aberlour Charity Group and hosted first aid workshops.

One highlight was a boxing night held in partnership with Elgin Boxing Club and Lossiemouth Football Club, hosted at both the Lossiemouth United Social Club and Lossiemouth Town Hall.

Supporting Vulnerable Families

Lossiemouth United has also supported the charity Samaritans and promoted low-alcohol options through links with the local Mindhop Brewery. The club hosts regular sporting and social activities for all ages, including the Little Kickers program, which offers free football training sessions to youngsters.

John emphasized the club’s role in helping vulnerable families find a sense of belonging. “A lot of young people are not going to school, or are struggling to attend school, and some families are really vulnerable,” he said.

He thanked Lossiemouth United’s sponsors and the public who support the club’s matches and fundraising events. The club has a “long-term vision” and is looking to introduce youth football and a women’s team.

“For us, it’s a pleasure to give something back when we can,” he added.