BANK OF SCOTLAND SOCCER SIGHT LAUNCHES AT INVERNESS CALEDONIAN THISTLE FOOTBALL CLUB

In the UK alone, it is estimated that over two million people live with sight problems, which limits their enjoyment of live matches.

The aim of Bank of Scotland Soccer Sight is to improve facilities and accessibility for such fans. This is facilitated through providing specialist commentary equipment to Premierleague clubs, allowing commentators words to paint a picture of a games action in to the minds of their audience.

BANK OF SCOTLAND SOCCER SIGHT PRESS RELEASE

Wednesday 11th April 2007

BANK OF SCOTLAND SOCCER SIGHT LAUNCHES AT INVERNESS CALEDONIAN THISTLE FOOTBALL CLUB (ICT FC)

Saturday 7th April: Inverness CT FC Board Chairman Alan Savage, Ian Black, Eleanor Ellison (RNIB), Falkirk FC Managing Director George Craig and Alec Watson (Falkirk FC guest commentator) were delighted to launch the Bank of Scotland Soccer Sight initiative at Inverness CT FC’s fixture last weekend. Six members of the Inverness visually impaired community took full advantage of the new facilities and were thrilled with the improvement it made to their match day experience.

In the UK alone, it is estimated that over two million people live with sight problems, which limits their enjoyment of live matches. The aim of Bank of Scotland Soccer Sight is to improve facilities and accessibility for such fans. This is facilitated through providing specialist commentary equipment to Premierleague clubs, allowing commentators words to paint a picture of a games action in to the minds of their audience.

Adele Mills, Sponsorship Manager at Bank of Scotland, said “One of the key reasons Bank of Scotland supports Scottish sport is to encourage as many people as possible to have access to their favourite games. Soccer Sight is a fantastic initiative to enable blind or partially–sighted football fans to attend a game, follow every kick of the ball and enjoy the experience of a Premierleague match.”

Alan Savage, Inverness CT FC Board Chairman commented, “Inverness CT FC are committed to ensuring our facilities are accessible to every supporter. The launch of Bank of Scotland Soccer Sight has been a great success; we must build on this momentum so fans are provided with a valuable service for years to come”.

Eleanor Ellison, RNIB Manager Recreation and Well-being added, “Its fantastic Bank of Scotland Soccer Sight has been so well received in Inverness. Fans can now anticipate top quality commentary to be a permanent fixture at the Tulloch stadium, ensuring their match day experience is significantly enhanced. Special thanks must go to Bank of Scotland for all their support”.

Following the launch of Bank of Scotland Soccer Sight in Inverness, voluntary commentators are needed to ensure this programme’s success continues. If you love talking football and want to put your talent to good use please contact 0141 204 7970 to hear how BBC commentary training could allow you to make a real difference in your community.