It received the new strips as part of The Co-operative’s commitment to encouraging more children to get involved in sport and enjoy active and healthier lifestyles in their local communities.

Melrose coach Ray Fenton said: “It is great that The Co-operative is sponsoring grassroots football. The kids are really pleased with the new kit and in their words, they feel 'really professional’ with it on. “It is difficult to attract sponsors to get new kit, and so we do really appreciate this support by The Co-operative.” The Co-operative’s grassroots programme consists of a number of projects including Win-a-Kit, all focused on encouraging more children to get involved in sport and enjoy more active and healthier lifestyles.

Aileen Walters, Sponsorship Manager at The Co-operative, said: “As a community-based retailer The Co-operative recognises the role it can play in helping children live active and healthier lifestyles at the heart of their communities.” For more information on the programme, contact Aileen by emailing aileen.walters@co-operative.coop