AFC Fylde Community Foundation is delighted to announce that Darren Thornhill has been named its Premier League Community Captain in partnership with the National League Trust.

This season, the Premier League is marking its 30^th anniversary by celebrating the individuals who support their local communities.

Darren has been actively supporting Community Foundation activities since the charity was formed in 2015 and has helped raise thousands of pounds through fundraising initiatives.

As an AFC Fylde season ticket holder and Group Head of Operations at the Baxter Group, Darren’s affiliation with the Foundation has seen him go above and beyond to support all members of his local community across the Fylde borough, leading by example and inspiring others.

Darren has supported the Foundation through our Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, FIT FYLDE and the inaugural charity golf day at Blackpool North Shore Golf Club!

The Premier League is proud to be a longstanding partner of the National League, providing investment for its member clubs to be competitive on the pitch, improve fan experience through the development of stadiums and enhance their links in the local community.

In partnership with the PFA, the Premier League invests in the National League Trust, which provides grants to all National League clubs to deliver impactful projects that support their local communities.

Over the last year, AFC Fylde Community Foundation has had a positive impact on the lives of 6,000 people, delivered over 10,000 sessions across 24 programmes and established key local and national partners, including Fylde Council and the National Lottery Community Fund.

Darren said: “From the moment I started working with the team at AFC Fylde Community Foundation, I realised that they shared the same work ethic and ethos as myself. They are all about helping the community and bringing people together.

“There is no discrimination with the Foundation, and they welcome everyone with open arms. The work they tirelessly do helps bridge the gap, not only between young and old but between Club and Community. Working alongside the team, I have been able to use my experiences and knowledge to help others and also learn new things about myself along the way.

“I believe, wholeheartedly, that the work the Foundation does helps ensure everyone from all backgrounds and age groups can grow, develop and make new friends whilst also having the potential to learn new skills. Being able to be a part of this is a big honour, and I will continue to help in any way I can for as long as I can.”

Everyone at AFC Fylde Community Foundation would like to congratulate Darren on his Community Captain recognition and thank him for all his hard work.