Axcess Merchant Services has proudly sponsored Bishop Auckland-based grassroots football club AJX FC, helping provide brand new team kits for one of the club's young sides.

The sponsorship, worth just under £500, funded a full set of 11 playing strips, ensuring the team not only looks the part but feels it too. It also frees up valuable club funds to be invested where they're needed most - from facilities and equipment to the ever-increasing costs of running a thriving grassroots football club.

Founded in 2022 with just a single team, AJX FC has enjoyed an impressive journey, growing into a community club with more than 20 teams spanning multiple age groups and competing across leagues throughout the North East. The club has become a shining example of what passion, commitment and local support can achieve.

Grassroots football depends on volunteers, fundraising and support from local businesses. Contributions like this can make a real difference, helping clubs provide more children with the chance to play, learn new skills and enjoy being part of a team.

Nick Fox, CEO of Axcess Merchant Services, said:

"AJX FC has grown quickly because of the commitment of its volunteers, coaches, players and families. We're pleased to support a local club that is creating opportunities for young people to get involved in sport, build confidence and be part of a team. Helping provide new kits is a practical way for Axcess to contribute to that work, and we're proud to play a small part in the club's continued development."

Lee Teasdale, AJX FC coach and Onboarding Manager at Axcess, added:

"I've seen first-hand what this club means to the children and their families. Having a proper team kit gives the players an enormous sense of pride and belonging - they genuinely feel part of something special. The support from Axcess has taken one financial pressure away from the club, allowing money to be spent on other essentials like equipment, facilities, and day-to-day running costs. With the costs of grassroots football continuing to rise, support from businesses like Axcess really does make a huge difference."

Axcess Merchant Services believes that success is built on strong partnerships, trust, and continuous improvement - principles that underpin both its work with merchants and its commitment to supporting local communities.

While Axcess helps online businesses optimise payments through innovative, secure, and personalised payment technology, this latest sponsorship demonstrates that investing in future talent isn't limited to the business world.

Because every great team deserves the chance to look the part before they play the part.

Pictures show the playing strips sponsored by Axcess Merchant Services, some of the young players, and Lee.