A HULL football club that paid supporters to watch its first match is now giving free lifetime passes to children.
Hundreds of football fans turned out to watch Hull United AFC win their first home game at Dene Park last month, after manager and chairman Jamie Waltham promised £2 for every spectator who turned up.
Now Mr Waltham, a former North Ferriby United player, is offering children aged 18 and under the opportunity to watch his team play for free for life.
His pledge comes after a visit to Endike Primary School on Friday.
Mr Waltham, 33, said: "While I was at the school I asked the kids some questions about football.
"When I asked them who liked football, they all put their hands up, but when I asked them how many were lucky enough to actually go and watch Hull City there were only about ten hands up in the air.
"We are so proud of City's achievements, but it is apparent that there is a financial barrier stopping these kids from going to watch their local football team.
"We want to change this and get kids watching their local team."
Joined by former first team coach and ex-Premier League player Jamie Barnwell-Edinboro, the pair will visit schools and colleges across Hull and the East Riding, delivering special assemblies and coaching sessions telling children all about the special offer available to them.
Mr Waltham said: "As well as offering kids this fantastic opportunity we also want to have a real presence in schools when it comes to football coaching.
"I feel there is currently a massive gap in football coaching and we want to bridge this gap."
Mr Waltham is also encouraging businesses in the area to get involved with a new loyalty scheme as part of the children's free football pass.
He said: "The pass the children will get won't just be a simple pass.
"We have been in contact with a number of businesses across Hull who are interested in joining forces with us to offer a loyalty discount card for those who have a pass.
"For example, we would love it if either Stagecoach or East Yorkshire Motor Services got involved and children with passes would be able to get free transport to the match.
"It would just make everything that bit easier for everyone."
Hull United AFC have had a positive start to the season, winning five out of their first six games.
Mr Waltham said: "We are doing really well and the response we have had from the public has been great as well.
"They have really supported us for all our games so far."
Mr Waltham wants to see his team win promotion to the Northern Counties East League.
He said: "From a young age, I've wanted to form a club and help them push up.
"I have a lot of belief. I'm quite an ambitious person and I think Hull deserves a top non-league club.
"North Ferriby have done really well and are a great example of what can be done, but they are not in Hull, which is why we decided on Hull United AFC."
Any businesses interested in getting involved with the loyalty scheme can call Mr Waltham on 07931 830302.
