Following success on the pitch at the weekend, the Dons players, staff and AFC Community Trust showed that Aberdeen FC is much more than just a football club by enjoying an afternoon by the sea with a difference.

Over 100 people from AFC and AFCCT, including Dons first team manager Jimmy Thelin and players, alongside members of the Women’s first team and Under 18’s team, took to Aberdeen beach on Monday afternoon to assist with a community clean up in partnership with the East Grampian Coastal Partnership (EGCP).

As part of the initiative, the volunteers spent time collecting rubbish and debris along the shores for over two hours, gathering almost 70 kgs of waste from the beach area.

Aberdeen FC is an institution in the city of Aberdeen and through the award-winning Aberdeen FC Community Trust, works to provide support and opportunity to change lives for the better.   There will be more community outreach programmes in the coming year as the Club and Trust work to demonstrate their civic pride in the City of Aberdeen.

“This afternoon was a great example of the community work AFC and AFCCT are undertaking in our local area,” said Liz Bowie, AFCCT Chief Executive.

“It’s about the AFC family coming together to give something back. We are one of the pillars of this City and it is important we set a good example. The Trust is actively out there throughout the year supporting others but sometimes doing something visible such as this brings to life exactly what the Trust and the Club are about.”

Dr Lauren Smith, Project Manager for the East Grampian Coastal Partnership, added:

“It has been fantastic to be able to work with Aberdeen Football Club and their Community Trust members today, keeping our beach free of litter is something everyone can get involved in, and it not only benefits local wildlife by preventing ingestion and entanglement but also visitors and locals alike by making the beach a safer and more enjoyable place to be.

“Engaging with the local community with the support of AFC is exactly what we as a coastal partnership are about, fostering a sense of pride and enthusiasm for this beautiful stretch of coastline.”