BARROW AFC supporters are being given the chance to watch their favourite team or pull on their own boot as part of two free initiatives.

The Bluebirds Trust, Barrow AFC Community and Pulse Soccer have teamed up to offer tickets to matches at Holker Street and morning football sessions on the day of AFC home games.

As part of the free tickets scheme, Bluebirds Trust member Steve Herbert hitch-hiked from Barrow to Torquay last month for the National League match.

He was sponsored for the trip and raised more than £1,000, which will go towards paying for various groups and families who might not otherwise make it to Holker Street to witness the fourth-placed Bluebirds in action.

“We have raised more than £1,000 and more is coming in,” said Barrow fan Herbert. “I have contacted local primary schools and various groups, so some local children and families will be attending this weekend’s game with York City.”

Any groups or individuals can apply for the free tickets by e-mailing the Bluebirds Trust on info@bluebirdstrust.co.uk. Once ordered, tickets can be picked up at Holker Street prior to home games.

AFC and the trust are also working in partnership with Keith Holmes, manager of Pulse Soccer, at the Park Leisure Centre, to give all Bluebirds fans the opportunity to play football before Saturday’s game.

A session will take place on the 3G pitch at Pulse between 10.30am and 11.30am, with players split into groups depending on age and ability. Anyone interested can just turn up on the day.

“All ages and abilities are welcome, I’m enjoying getting back out there and I’m not exactly in the first flush of youth,” smiled Herbert. “We are especially looking for those who aren’t playing at the moment. It’s non- competitive, it gets people out of the house and it’s free.”