Airdrieonians launch sensory room for disabled children

Airdrieonians are set to become the first football club in Scotland to offer a sensory room at home games for children with conditions such as autism.

The official launch of the facility will be at the top-of-the-table clash with Livingston in Scottish League One on Saturday.

While some equipment has already been purchased, the club is aiming to raise £10,000 to install specialised accessories with celebrities including Hollywood star Tom Hanks and actors Mark Hammill and Ricky Gervais signing Airdrieonians strips.

The Diamond Sensory Room was created by the club's commercial manager Dougy Alsop and youth academy coach Stevie Burr, who has a son with autism.

Alsop said: "The Diamond Sensory Room will build on our 'Football for Everyone' programme, and provide a safe and comfortable place for autistic children and their carers to watch home matches.

"The club have worked with the trust and the stadium owners on several projects to make football in the town more accessible for everyone.

"Sammy's Shelter, opened a couple of years ago for wheelchair users, is probably the most high profile example of this to date."

The capacity of the room at the Excelsior Stadium will be restricted to 10 children and 10 parents or carers.

Watford and Sunderland, who both have sensory rooms at their ground, provided advice to Airdrieonians on the project.