It has become one of the fastest-growing grassroots football clubs in the area, offering football opportunities for boys, girls and pan-disability players from across Atherton and surrounding communities.
Based at Bee Fold Lane, the club is run entirely by volunteers who dedicate countless hours each week to coaching teams, maintaining facilities and supporting young players both on and off the pitch.
Over recent years the club has grown significantly, with teams spanning multiple age groups and a clear pathway for young players to progress through youth football.
The club’s ethos centres around inclusion, community spirit and giving every child the opportunity to enjoy the game regardless of ability or background.
Behind the scenes, volunteers have also been working hard to improve the club’s facilities and develop Bee Fold Lane into a long-term community sports hub. Plans include improvements to the playing surface, new welfare and catering facilities and better infrastructure to support local teams and visiting clubs.
As part of this development, the club has secured PitchPower funding through the Football Foundation which will see around £100,000 invested into improving the playing surface over the next five years.
The club has also been gifted 420 trees from the Woodland Trust which will be planted around the perimeter of the ground to enhance biodiversity and create a greener environment for the community.
Matchdays at Bee Fold Lane are a true reflection of grassroots football. Volunteers arrive early to unlock gates, set up nets and prepare pitches, while families gather along the touchlines to support the next generation of players proudly wearing the famous black and white stripes.
The club’s dedication to youth development and community sport has been recognised with a nomination for Lancashire FA Grassroots Club of the Year 2026.
Atherton Collieries Juniors continues to welcome new players, volunteers and supporters who want to be part of a thriving community club.
Those interested in getting involved or learning more about the club can find information through the club’s online Linktree page.
https://linktr.ee/collsjnrs
4. Contributed
Promoting Socials and Physical activity with peer groups, learning and having fun. Recent players of the match highlighted Photo: Submitted