TWO Cardiff youth clubs were boosted yesterday, after a trade union branch pledged their support and agreed to sponsor the community teams.

Unison Cymru/Wales and the South Gas branch have agreed to provide football kits and act as sponsors for two Whitchurch-based sides — AFC Whitchurch YFC and Cardiff Cosmos AFC — who compete in leagues across south Wales.

The groups consisting of under-11s and 12-16 and 16-24-year-olds will now take to the field decked out in smart kits with the Unison and South Gas branch logo on.

Branch secretary Karl Whitehead-Ross said: “As trade unionists, Unison South Gas branch members felt it was really important we get behind the efforts of community organisers and particularly those working with young people. AFC Whitchurch YFC and Cardiff Cosmos AFC do vital work providing a wonderful outlet for kids, emphasising the importance of working together to achieve success. We are proud to be their sponsor. Come down today for the friendly match and support the Gareth Bales of the future.”

To mark the partnership AFC Whitchurch YFC played a friendly match yesterday at the Llanidloes Road pitch.