COWDENBEATH'S Club 135 initiative has been praised by the Scottish Government's Sports Minister.

Club 135 was established two years ago to provide a solid financial foundation for the Blue Brazil and already has more than 500 backers with the ultimate goal of getting 13,500 contributing £10 or more.

Cowdenbeath MSP Annabelle Ewing met with representatives of Cowdenbeath FC and the Scottish Government’s Minister for Sport, Joe FitzPatrick, for a discussion regarding the Club 135 Campaign.

Speaking following the meeting, Ms Ewing said: “When Cowdenbeath FC contacted me about their Club 135 Campaign, I was really keen to set up a meeting for them to discuss it with the Scottish Government’s Minister for Sport.

"I am pleased that has been possible and it was great to be able to welcome two of the Club’s directors, Tom Ewing and David Allan to Parliament.

“I am pleased to note that Cowdenbeath FC has significant plans which will anchor the club in the community while also promoting health and well-being locally."

Added Ms Ewing: “Cowdenbeath – the Blue Brazil – are the oldest surviving football club in Fife and I am delighted to lend my support to their plans to put the club on a more secure financial footing, combined with a determination to help to change lives for the better in the Cowdenbeath area and closer links between the town and the club can only be beneficial to all.

“The meeting with the Minister was very positive indeed and I am pleased that Scottish Government officials will be able to provide some support in terms of pointing them towards whatever help might be available.

“I, of course, stand ready as constituency MSP to do what anything I can to help.”

Sports Minister Joe FitzPatrick said: “I was delighted to meet with Cowdenbeath FC officials and local MSP Annabelle Ewing at the Scottish Parliament.

“The club has a proud history, rooted in the town – and I was impressed by the club’s ambitious plans to ensure it has a bright future.

“The Club 135 campaign is central to that. I am pleased supporters and local people have been digging deep to help. That support is vital to sustain the club".

Mr Fitzpatrick concluded: “I was heartened to hear the club plans to strengthen its community work.

"The Scottish Government believes football can be a powerful force for good, delivering positive outcomes in Cowdenbeath and across Scotland. We are happy to advise the club on a range of options to enhance this work.”

Our photograph shows left to right, Tom Ewing, Cowden director responsible for the youth and community programme; Joe FitzPatrick, Minister for Sport; Annabelle Ewing MSP; David Allan, Cowdenbeath FC finance director and club secretary.