Diamonds look to help in the community

The Diamonds In The Community Football Memories Group are still supporting the people of Monklands during the lockdown.

The group, who usually run free monthly sessions are the Penny Cars Stadium, help the elderly, those living with dementia, or those living in isolation.

Once lockdown is over DITC committee member Dougy Allsop has revealed they plan on carrying out weekly sessions, covering a variety of sports and not just football, and will be taking the session around different sports clubs across Airdrie.

Allsop revealed the group had come up with some creative ways to support people during the lockdown.

He said:“While the lockdown has been on, we have been in touch with our friends at the care homes to make sure they are keeping well.

“We have been passing on additional materials via email for them to print out and discuss with the guys, and are also sending hand santiser and cakes – not to be eaten together!

“We have also published this material on our social media channels, and have devised several of our own quizzes, which we have issued to the masses just for fun.

“Out of bad situations comes hope. Our community assist project has increased our exposure in Airdrie, and especially to people who can benefit from our programmes who did not know they were on their doorstep.

“We have been helping lots of people in sheltered housing or who attend neighbourhood centres, and will be inviting them along to our sessions once they start up again.”

He added:“We are always on the lookout for volunteers to come along and help take the sessions.

“Full training is given, and no knowledge of football is really needed - all info is provided, and you just need the ability to have a good old fashioned blether.”