On the ball with safety message

A FOOTBALL programme that tackles physical inactivity and antisocial behaviour while promoting railway safety is running for a second year.

The Midnight League Programme at Balwearie High School in Kirkcaldy is attracting more than 50 boys and girls each week.

The Friday night scheme is run by Fife Council, Network Rail and t he Scottish Football Association.

The assistant football development officer with the council, Graeme Colmer, said it was one of three projects.

“We work with Network Rail to deliver three Midnight League programmes at Balwearie and Lochgelly high schools and the Beacon Leisure Centre in Burntisland,” he said.

“All three venues lie in close proximity to railway lines.

“Whilst the Midnight League aims primarily to increase physical activity and maybe unearth the next Scottish football star, it also raises awareness of railway safety.”

Network Rail’s senior communications manager Mark Henderson said the company was delighted to take part in the project.

“We have found that using the influence and appeal of football enables us to educate large numbers of young people about the dangers of railway misuse in a fun and memorable way,” he said.

“These events complement our wider community engagement programme t o encourage responsible use of the railway across the country.”