It has been a pleasure to watch Marine FC during their remarkable cup run this season. The team consistently performed to the highest standard, demonstrating grit, determination, and pride. It was an honour to attend the semi-final at Whealstone FC, and although the match was cruelly lost in the final minute, the team can be immensely proud of an outstanding run. It was also inspiring to witness the warmth and support of our loyal fans, who, within seconds of the final whistle, rallied around the team, showing immense pride in both the players and the club.
Last week, Marine in the Community was equally proud to receive a Civic Award at Bootle Town Hall from Sefton CVS and Sefton Council. Not only did we receive an individual award recognising the outstanding work of our volunteers—particularly through our highly regarded Community Café—but we were also honoured with the overall award for our contribution across Sefton. This represents a significant milestone and reinforces our growing impact within the local community.
Our minibus is now fully operational, and we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to its upkeep and repairs. In particular, we thank local councillors Les Byrom and Janet Grace from Victoria Ward for their generous £1,000 donation. The minibus will support day trips, walking groups, transport for elderly residents, and partnerships with schools and local charities.
We also celebrate the success of our Under-12 girls’ team. St Luke’s Primary School, representing Marine, has qualified for the Northern Finals in York and is just one round away from Wembley. Congratulations and best of luck to coach Sean O’Dochartaigh and the team in the next round.
This May, we will launch free football sessions for 12–14-year-olds every Friday from 5pm to 6pm at Marine FC, in partnership with Merseyside Police, providing a positive and inclusive environment for young people.
In addition, we are introducing a Girls-Only Youth Club, with an open evening on 18th May from 4pm to 6pm, in partnership with Sefton CVS. This initiative will provide a safe and supportive space for girls to engage, develop, and build confidence.
The Community Hub continues to seek sponsors to support its ongoing work, including opportunities for naming rights.
This recent award reflects the collective efforts of our coaches, volunteers, trustees, and Marine FC. If you would like to support Marine in the Community or get involved in our activities, please do get in touch.
Regular Activities
- Junior Football Coaching: Weekly sessions every Wednesday for children aged 5–12, focusing on skill development, fitness, teamwork, and fun, including a Champions League-style tournament. Open to all abilities.
- Friday Welcome Café (12:30pm–2:30pm): One of the region’s most popular social cafés for over-60s, offering food, music, entertainment, and a welcoming environment.
- Zumba (10:00–10:45) and Chair Yoga (10:45–11:30): Held every Friday. £5 per session or £8 for both.
- Yoga (Tuesday, 2:00pm–3:00pm): £5 per session.
- Heritage Walking Group: Monthly walks on Thursdays until March, increasing to twice monthly thereafter, exploring local heritage sites and concluding with a social coffee or lunch.
- Marine Community Choir: Every Tuesday from 12:30pm–2:00pm. Open to all, including refreshments. £5 per session.
- Youth Club: Tuesdays, 4:00pm–6:00pm.
- Girls’ Youth Club: Launching with an open day on 18th May.
- Free Football Coaching (Ages 12–14): Fridays from 5:00pm–6:00pm, starting 8th May.
If you are interested in supporting Marine in the Community, sponsoring activities or events, hiring our facilities, exploring partnership opportunities, or joining our programmes, please contact either myself or Seán. If you know someone who may benefit from our activities, we would be delighted to welcome them—our work genuinely changes lives.
The Community Hub has been fitted to a high standard, including full internet access, smart TVs, a sound system, kitchen facilities, accessible toilets, and optional catering services. Please feel free to visit, say hello, and have a look around.
For enquiries, please contact: graeme@marineinthecommunity.com
Thank you for your continued support as we work together to strengthen our community.
Best regards,
Graeme Gardiner
Community Director
📧 graeme@marineinthecommunity.com