Youth football clubs in Stevenage have shown the red card to racism. Stevenage Borough Council has also thrown its weight behind football s anti-racism campaign Kick It Out. Originally known as Let s Kick Racism Out of Football, the campaign was started i

Youth football clubs in Stevenage have shown the red card to racism.

Stevenage Borough Council has also thrown its weight behind football's anti-racism campaign Kick It Out.

Originally known as Let's Kick Racism Out of Football, the campaign was started in 1993 by the PFA and it was renamed Kick It Out in 1997.

It works through the football, educational and community sectors to challenge racism and aims "to ensure that all who go to see or play football can do so without fear of racial abuse or harassment".

During this year's fortnight of action (October 17-30), the borough council worked with Bedwell Rangers to give free coaching sessions to children aged between seven and 11.

The time was also used to educate the youngsters about treating people equally.

The free sessions took place during last week's half term at Peartree Park and Ridlins. During the sessions, the children learned football skills and the importance of teamwork and treating others equally.

The youngsters were also invited to enter a competition by writing a poem or drawing a picture based on the Kick It Out themes. The best entry will win a signed Stevenage Boro football shirt and a gift voucher.

The competition is still open and you do not need to have attended one of the sessions to enter.

Send your entries to: Julie Bayford, Community Safety, Stevenage Borough Council, Daneshill House, Danestrete, Stevenage, SG1 1HN. The closing date is the end of November.

Councillor Sue Myson said: "This council fully supports any campaign that works to eliminate racism.

"The Kick It Out project has been working towards this for over 10 years and we are proud to be actively involved."

For more information about Kick It Out visit www.kickitout.org or email info@kickitout.org

Another club, Stevenage Colts, supported the recent campaign designed to raise awareness and eliminate racism in football.

At Sunday's under-16s county cup tie between Stevenage Colts and Bengeo Tigers, they presented the visiting players, management and supporters with Kick It Out literature, badges, stickers and t-shirts in support of the campaign.

Bengeo Tigers were fully supportive of the campaign. The Colts would like to thank Stevenage Boro FC for their assistance in the event.

Stevenage Colts are an FA Charter Standard club which operates a fully inclusive policy for all players and staff.

Please contact colts chairman Martin Wisker for further information on the club or the Kick It Out campaign on 07977 271920 or visit the website www.stevenagecolts.co.uk