THE VICS COLUMN - an update from committee member, Paul Bazley

AFTER an update in previous weeks on some of the commercial success we've achieved at the club, in this week's column we'll be focusing on the recent link-up between the Vics and local charity Tiny Steps.

This is a link that we forged together in the summer after an initial chat following a reunion of old (ish) Moss Farm 7-a-side football friends.

The football club's committee had made the decision that we wanted to help a more local children's charity given the huge success that we'd shared with our other charitable partners, The Offside Trust which is co-founded by Vics legend and club ambassador Steve Walters for whom we not only raise much needed funds but the level of awareness that we can help give is immeasurable in today's modern world, along with the exposure on social media platforms.

The launch of our historic away kit to celebrate the club's 145th anniversary this year was to bear the logo on the sleeve of our chosen children's charity, it features a small green heart between two tiny feet - Tiny Steps.

Founded by Martin and Laura Clifton, the charity's aim is to provide a sensory play area and social cafe for children with additional needs, and their families in the area.

The latest fundraiser, last Friday saw Inspiral Carpets keyboard player Clint Boon DJ at a Brit pop night in the town's Winnington Recreation Club.

The sell-out night was another huge success.

Brilliantly organised mainly by local DJ and Vics' fan Scott Burstow, Vics took the opportunity to get Clint to sign a bespoke Vics' away shirt we'd had specially made by Northwich kit suppliers Buccaneer Sports.

The shirt features no sponsors this time, only The Offside Trust logo on the back, while across the front is also 'Boon Army' - the name given to Clint's army of followers, and of course the Tiny Steps logo on both sleeves.

This fantastic shirt is up for auction now with 100 percent of money raised going to Tiny Steps.

If you'd like to bid to win the shirt contact Paul Bazley on DM Twitter, Facebook messenger or via text on 07595 329863. The auction ends on Saturday, October 19, at 10am.

We're so proud to be able to help this amazing cause in any way we can, spreading the message 'everywhere we go'.

Martin, who is also a lifelong Vics fan whose daughter Connie inspired the charity's aims, spoke of the link-up with his boyhood team.

"I've known Paul for years through playing football together. It's all happened really quickly and it's fantastic," he said.

"It's not about how much money Vics can raise for us, it's about getting the name out there.

"The further afield the charity can get its logo and name out there, the better."

Eventually the charity aims to apply for charity grants and government funding to help open the sensory play area and cafe.

If you'd like to find out more on the charity or maybe help them by donating, go to tiny-steps.co.uk

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with two Tiny Steps"