Young footballers were chosen from clubs all over the region to take part in games at Central Park, enjoying a fun day while learning about and remembering the poignant ceasefire that took place 100 years ago.

Former goalkeeper John Ritchie, who played for Cowdenbeath and is now on the coaching staff, was one of the organisers.

He said, “A colleague had the idea about getting involved with the ‘Football Remembers’ initiative being run by the English Premiership.

"I suggested the idea of running an event to remember the Christmas truce to Steph Mackie, the secretary for the Central and East Fife Soccer Sevens Association.

“She agreed it would be a good idea and approached member clubs to nominate one player each to represent them, chosen at random, not for their ability, so everyone had a chance at taking part.” Cowdenbeath FC offered to host the event, while Dalgety Bay Sports Centre donated the use of two sets of goals, and on Saturday morning kids, friends and families all turned up to take part.

“It was a good day, it went very well and the kids enjoyed it,” said John. “Sixty kids came to play a series of games, and it was well-attended by parents. We also held a minute’s silence to remember the occasion.

"The games were played in a good spirit and manner, and I want to congratulate everyone who took part. It was good community involvement and gave the kids a chance to participate in the event for a worthwhile cause.

“We explained to the kids what it was about so they got a wee lesson too. Some of the kids already knew as they had done projects on it in school.” John, who runs the JR-Coaching school, donated strips for the kids and they were also allowed to keep the special shirts they got on the day, embroidered with a poppy and the words ‘lest we forget.’