Children find refuge in game for everyone
who took part were able to take their blue and white striped shirt home.
Chris Mann, the club’s secretary, was one of the volunteers coaching the children.
He said: “Coming to a new country, it’s going to be difficult and playing football brings people together. Everybody can join in.
“If some of them enjoy it and play for a football club, it’s a really worthwhile thing.”
Between 50 and 60 children took part in the games, and Chris, from Kingston Park, believes the day was a success.
The 35-year-old said: “We’ve had loads of support from parents at our club by donating football boots and washing old kit that we could donate to the children.”
Fundraiser for the club Linda Gardiner said Red House Farm FC was determined to make sure the day went ahead despite initial obstacles.
The club applied for a grant to fund the day, but when they were unsuccessful decided to cover the costs themselves.
Linda, 43, from Kingston Park, said: “We wanted to help them integrate and make them feel welcome.
“All the kids have smiles on their faces and that’s what it’s all about.
“Everybody loves football. It brings people together and they forget about differences.”
Parklands ward councillor and Deputy Lord Mayor David Down was one of those who watched the matches from the sidelines.
He said: “Football is a great integrator because it’s not about language or appearance, it’s about skill and teamwork.
“If you can get people from different backgrounds playing together they become friends and the apprension just falls by the wayside and they just enjoy each other’s company and enjoy the game.”
Volunteers from the North of England Refugee Service, a charity supporting asylum seekers and refugees in the region were among those who attended.
A spokesperson from NERS said: “Ali from NERS accompanied children interested in football and provided interpreting to support those taking part in the event unable to speak English.
“This is an excellent initiative to support those seeking asylum in Newcastle and provide inclusive opportunities for community engagement.”
The club hopes to make the football fun day a regular event in the school holidays throughout the year.