Chester and District Housing Trust (CDHT) has renewed its sponsorship of Chester Football Club.

The new partnership agreement will see Chester FC delivering a range of sports sessions across CDHT’s communities for the benefit of local residents.

CDHT, part of housing and care provider Sanctuary Group, has supported Chester FC since it became community owned in 2010, providing services, initiatives and facilities to benefit local people living in Chester and the surrounding area. The partnership will provide opportunities for even more residents through tailored programmes of activities.

Chester FC will deliver activities to local people of all ages including mini-kickers sessions for boys and girls in reception class and Years 1 and 2, development skills training for girls and over 50s football, as well as outreach computer skills programmes to over 55s, to broaden and enhance IT skills across CDHT’s communities.

Through the partnership, Avenue Services, also part of Sanctuary Group, will deliver the grounds maintenance services and cleaning at Chester FC.

Michele Payne, Sanctuary’s resident involvement manager, said: “Sanctuary is committed to investing in its communities and recognises the benefits of continuing the strong partnership between CDHT and Chester FC. It is great news that Chester FC will deliver these activities which will have a real positive impact on residents in our communities.”

Jon McCarthy, chief executive officer of Chester FC Community Trust, said: “It is fantastic to have such a supportive and valued partner working with us and for this agreement to extend to what will be five years since CDHT became involved. As a club, we have progressed so much in that time, moving up the leagues with the support of our partners, and are confident that will continue.”

The ongoing agreement will also see the Centurion Stand at the ground, which was named in a competition by CDHT residents, retaining its name.

To get involved with the sports sessions delivered by Chester FC or for more information please call Michele Payne on 01244 305537.