AFC Bournemouth has just linked up with Vitality and MSP Capital to launch a new football boot recycling scheme, where  pre-loved boots or trainers will be donated to disadvantaged families throughout Bournemouth.

Bring Your Boots was launched to help get more young people playing football, with 74% of families having admitted to being financially impacted by the pandemic in recent reports, with almost a fifth (18%) saying they’d struggle to send their children back to grassroots clubs because of the cost of replacing outgrown items such as boots.

The donations will help those who are unable to afford new trainers or boots in the local community via the club’s Community Sports Trust, which organises several projects, workshops, and schemes designed to help both adults and children take part in physical activities.

Members of the public can donate at two designated drop off points, the first being in the AFC Bournemouth Superstore and the second drop off point will be in the Junior Fanzone on a home matchday.

Fans will be able to leave donations there at any point during the week, subject to the store’s opening times, while the second drop off point makes it easy for supporters to leave any donated boots or trainers when visiting the stadium for a first team fixture. Vitality’s office in Bournemouth will also have a collection point to support the scheme and encourage donations.

James Hill, who signed on a permanent basis from Fleetwood Town in January, will be the campaign’s player ambassador, becoming the primary first team squad in supporting the project.

Nick Read, Managing Director of the Vitality programme, said: “Supporting and enabling people to be active is at the very centre of what we do. We are delighted be part of this campaign, that will enable more people to take up or continue playing football.

Steve Cuss, Head of Community at AFC Bournemouth, was also excited to be involved: “Physical activity has so many benefits and, through our community projects, we look to involve as many people from within community as possible.

"The boot recycling scheme removes a barrier for everyone to get active, as having the correct equipment is vital. We are very grateful to both MSP Capital and Vitality for their support with this initiative.”

For more information, head to the AFC Bournemouth website.