BARROW AFC are hoping to create a special Christmas atmosphere at Holker Street for their match against Solihull Moors.

The Bluebirds Trust and the club have teamed up to hand out free tickets for the game to around 250 local schoolchildren.

The adult and child tickets will give admission to the National League clash on Saturday, December 30, and Bluebirds Trust vice-chairman Steve Herbert is hopeful many of those given tickets will flock to watch the team in action.

“After the excitement of the day itself, families are looking for something to do together at Christmas,” said Herbert.

“Also, it can be an expensive time, so this gives Furness schoolkids a chance to do something together for free with family.

“Matches at this time of year always have a special atmosphere, so there’s also a chance to experience festive football.”

General tickets for the Solihull game will also be discounted on the day, with adult terrace prices at £10 and main stand adult prices at £13.

Anyone who buys a ticket for the Wrexham match on Boxing Day either via the club reception or online before December 23 will also receive a free ticket for the Moors encounter.

The ticket giveaway follows a series of joint-initiatives between the club and the Bluebirds Trust.

The most recent has been the annual collection for Barrow Foodbank, with schools around the area contributing this year, and AFC owner Paul Casson doubling all donations.

AFC managing director Andrew Casson and head of community Craig Rutherford dropped the first collection off at the Foodbank this week.

The majority of the food was Christmas-related items, such as selection boxes, mince pies and Christmas puddings, to enable them to be sent out in time for Christmas Day.

The club is still open for donations, which can be dropped off at reception during regular opening hours. Alternatively, people can contact the club or Bluebirds Trust to arrange for donations to be collected.

Barrow AFC will be holding a family Christmas party in the Crossbar on Thursday, between 6pm and 10pm.

Tickets are £3 for adults and children, or £10 for a family of four.

Tickets can be booked by calling the club on 01229 666010.