TRAIN and bus operator FirstGroup plc are the new sponsors of Plymouth Argyle's Football in the Community Curriculum programme, enabling the club to run football sessions in 50 different schools across the area.

The Curriculum programmes will teach and develop the fundamentals of football, enabling young people to actively participate in the sport, as well as teaching the pressing issues of healthy living and the importance of a well-balanced diet.

The Plymouth Argyle Curriculum programme sponsorship is part of FirstGroup's First for Football programme which involves nine other Football League clubs in the south west region.

Argyle Manager Paul Sturrock said: "Plymouth Argyle is a community club and we are very grateful to FirstGroup for helping our Community Department to develop and, hopefully, uncover a Pilgrim star of the future."

FirstGroup Chief Executive Sir Moir Lockhead said: "We feel it is extremely worthwhile to support Plymouth Argyle's community team and especially this Curriculum programme which will help youngsters around Plymouth.

"We will be helping thousands of youngsters through football to better understand the importance of fitness, a healthy lifestyle and education."

In May this year FirstGroup sponsored a Junior Soccer Tournament at Swindon Town's County Ground stadium. The one-day event attracted 800 young players supported by around 3,000 cheering parents!

First for Football is one of a number of sponsorship packages set up by FirstGroup. Examples include the First Monster duathlon - a 120k team-based running and cycling event around Loch Ness each September and a deal with UK School Games where FirstGroup are the official transport provider for the athletics finals.