During the recent school holidays, young people from across our Greater Manchester Street Reds projects enjoyed the opportunity to hone their skills at a football tournament at Platt Lane, hosted by Manchester United Foundation and supported by Eamonn O’Neal, the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.

The office of High Sheriff, a ceremonial role in local government, is also used to raise awareness of local good causes and has also set up the High Sheriff’s Young Citizen of the Year award, recognising achievements from local youngsters. The Foundation will be hosting a number of events with High Sheriff throughout the season after receiving funding from Greater Manchester High Sheriff Police Trust to support these events.

The tournament culminated with Eamonn awarding the winning team with a separate award, the High Sheriff’s Cup.

“As a Manchester United fan, I’ve been delighted to be here today and to be working with the Foundation,” Eamonn told us.” We live in difficult times where young people need to feel empowered and supported and it’s great to see the work the Foundation do, and how they go about doing just that.

“It was a pleasure to present the High Sheriff’s Trophy at the end of the tournament and I’m very excited for future collaborations with the Foundation.”

Also in attendance was former Red, Premier League winner Danny Simpson who enjoyed getting his boots on once again, joining in with the sessions and passing on words to advice. A local boy, who achieved the dreams of many young people in Manchester and Salford by playing for United, Danny is always happy to support young players where he can.

“Football brings people together,” he said. “The kids have come here today, not knowing one another, and have shown real confidence in showing what they can do even though they might be a bit nervous.

“The Foundation works tirelessly to ensure that the community benefits from United and, most importantly, they’re giving opportunities to the kids throughout the year. It’s always a pleasure to support that.”

Street Reds is Manchester United Foundation’s adaptation of the Premier League Kicks programme, powered by the Premier League Charitable Fund.