The Club’s Charity, City in the Community (CITC) has released a new story in its participant story-telling series, ‘We Are City in the Community.’

Each month CITC is spotlighting its work and programmes through the voices and stories of its participants across Manchester.

In the latest story, Mark, a Military Veteran participant discusses how the sessions have helped him build friendships with people who have been through similar experiences since leaving the armed forces.

Find out more about City in the Community

Talking about the sessions Mark said: “I feel energised when I come to the sessions. It’s a reason to get out of the house and doing a bit of fitness, which makes me feel good.

“I’ve felt included as part of a group again, something I’ve not had since I left the military.

“It’s a place where we all support each other. We help each other out.”

The City Vets programme was set up more than five years ago when Moving Forces contacted the charity, looking for a military programme that kept them active, as well as providing veterans with a form of socialising with people who have experienced similar things to them.

New veterans are always welcomed to the sessions on a Tuesday night 8pm-9pm at the City Football Academy indoor pitch.

If you would like to support CITC and their work, you can this Christmas through Manchester City’s ‘The Greatest Season of All’ campaign.

For every purchase a fan makes for a range of selected Christmas retail clothing items, available online and in the City Store, the Club will donate £5 to its charity, City in the Community.

Fans can also make additional donations at the tills in the stadium store, when checking out during their purchase journey for match tickets and via www.mancity.com/CITC.

City in the Community empowers healthier lives with city youth through football. To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow the charity on social media @CITCmancity.