A FORMER Royals star made a surprise appearance on a grassroots pitch in Lower Earley, much to the delight of budding young footballers.
Fara Williams, a pivotal part of the England squad, paid a visit to Laurel Park FC to see how girls have been inspired to take up football after the Lionesses were crowned European Champions.
Since the summer Laurel Park has been running Lionesses Legacy sessions to offer girls who have been inspired by the Lionesses the chance to play football for the first time for free in a fun and pressure free environment.
The visit to the youngsters was part of M&S Food’s Eat Well, Play Well campaign, which looks to inspire grassroots players to make healthier choices with their food.
The scheme is run in partnership with The FA and uses the power of football to help families make healthier eating choices.
Ms Williams was delighted to be taking part.
“The grassroots is where every footballer’s love of the game starts so it was brilliant to visit Laurel Park with M&S, and see first-hand how the Lionesses are inspiring the next generation to take up the game,” she said.
“It was really interesting speaking to the young players and hearing how the Euros had made them want to play football for the first time.”
She added: “I’m so proud to be supporting the M&S Eat Well, Play Well campaign which is turn is helping kids and their families make healthier choices.
“Nutrition is so important in football, because if you don’t eat well, you can’t play well.”
For more information about the Eat Well, Play Well campaign and the competition, log on to: marksandspencer.com/football
