Back in the Game Ballymena present charity cheques at special presentation morning

Des McKeown and other members of Back in the Game Ballymena, welcomes Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford.

Back in the Game Ballymena welcomed a special guest to their annual presentation morning this week, as the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford, attended the event during the group’s weekly football session.

The presentation morning took place on Thursday morning, February 5, bringing together players and supporters to mark another year of activity for the Ballymena-based group, which supports men through football and social connection.

During the visit, cheques were presented to Ryan from Turning Point NI and Maureen from Radio Cracker, following a collection raised by players at the group’s recent Christmas Dinner.

Ronnie Carleton presents a cheque to Ryan Agnew from local charity Turning Point NI, on behalf of Back in the Game.

Hugh Ramsey presents a cheque to Maureen Allen from Radio Cracker, on behalf of Back in the Game Ballymena.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford with (L-R) Maureen Allen from Radio Cracker, Hugh Ramsey from Back in the Game Ballymena, Ronnie Carlton from Back in the Game Ballymena and Ryan Agnew from Turning Point NI.

The presentation highlighted the strong community ethos within Back in the Game Ballymena, with members choosing to support local organisations that play an important role in wellbeing, recovery and community engagement across the area.

The Mayor’s attendance provided an opportunity to recognise the group’s ongoing work and the generosity shown by its members, reinforcing the positive impact that grassroots initiatives can have within Mid and East Antrim.

Back in the Game Ballymena continues to use weekly football sessions as a platform for connection, encouragement and mutual support, while also giving back to the wider community through fundraising and awareness.