Following an extensive recruitment drive for new roles at the club in May, Southport Football Club are pleased to announce that the final member of staff to join our new team is Lee Folkard as Head of Community Football Development.

Lee brings over 15 years of experience in football and sports development as well as a vast knowledge of grassroots football and community engagement through his previous roles at Manchester City In the Community and Manchester Football Association.

His role is critical to the club’s engagement with the community and the establishment of the club’s charitable foundation.

By engaging with the key demographics of Southport, children and young people, adults and older people, our aim is to provide key activities that not only improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Southport but encourage them to become lifelong fans of the club.

On his appointment, Lee said: “I’m delighted to be joining the club at such an exciting time. The potential of the football club to engage with the local community and establish growth in a number of areas is something that appealed to me straight away.

“I can’t wait to get to started and be the link to bring Southport FC closer to our community via Football engagement for all.”

CEO Natalie Atkinson commented: “This role is critical to bringing the club to the people of Southport, providing a hub for activities and engaging with as many people as possible.

“After a long recruitment process, we are delighted that Lee is joining the team, he brings to this role years of experience, contacts and key achievements within football and community development that will ensure this programme is a success. Welcome to the club Lee.”