Swindon Mitsubishi champions football academy

Swindon Mitsubishi has shown its support for football in the community by sponsoring an academy backed by Swindon Town FC’s captain Nathan Thompson.

The dealership in Bridgemead has given the Wims11 Football Academy and its ambassador Nathan an Outlander PHEV each.

Shaun Wimble, who runs the academy, said: ‘I’m absolutely delighted with the support. It’s been a big aim to find a large organisation to support us and the work we do so it’s fantastic to have Mitsubishi on board.’

The academy, which covers Swindon, Melksham and Chippenham, was set up five years ago and trains 400 youngsters aged 18 months up to 12 years old.

Nathan, 24, who is an ambassador for the academy, said: ‘I’m absolutely made up with the car. I’ve never had a hybrid before but I’ve taken it for a test drive and it’s great – it’s going to save me loads on petrol.’

On his work with the academy Nathan said: ‘It’s fantastic to see the work Shaun does and see kids growing up playing football the right way. The emphasis isn’t on winning, it’s all about technique and that will stand them in great stead as they get older.’

Swindon are aiming for promotion from League One this season and are already assured of a play-off spot.

Andy Jackman, general manager of Swindon Mitsubishi, said: ‘We’re delighted to be able to support Nathan and the academy.

“Shaun does some fantastic work with young people in the area so it’s great to be able to help him. The Outlander PHEV has been a great success for us and I am sure they will enjoy driving them.”