Eddie Howe says Bournemouth set an example by backing Rainbow Laces campaign

By Calum Wilson

Image: Bournemouth's Simon Francis wore a rainbow armband against Arsenal last season

Eddie Howe says Bournemouth are setting an example to other clubs in promoting inclusion by backing Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign.

The initiative, which runs from November 24 to December 3, will see players, clubs and fans from across football showing their support for LGBT inclusion in sport.

We are a club very much for everybody and we believe in inclusion for everybody.
Eddie Howe, Bournemouth manager

Bournemouth will visibly back the campaign during Saturday's trip to Swansea, where their captain will wear a rainbow armband.

Sophie Cook, formerly Bournemouth's official club photographer, came out as transgender to her colleagues and the players in summer 2015 and said the response from the club was overwhelmingly positive.

Image: Bournemouth's club photographer Sophie Cook was overwhelmed by the support she received from the staff and players after coming out as transgender

Speaking at a Rainbow Laces event with EA Sports, Cherries manager Howe said: "We are a club that is setting an example and setting a new path, and I think the supporters have backed that superbly.

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"We're trying to change mind-sets of people in football and trying to break new barriers and we want to do our bit.

Bournemouth's Harry Arter has called for fans to 'welcome everyone' as Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign activity kicks off this weekend

"I think this is a really important campaign throughout football, not just for us. We are a club very much for everybody and we believe in inclusion for everybody.

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"I think it's vitally important that we show that support through our captain. It's not about individuals, it's about the team trying to promote this cause."

Image: Clubs up and down the country will show their support for the Rainbow Laces campaign this coming weekend

Liverpool also pledged their support for the Rainbow Laces campaign on Tuesday, with a number of plans put in place for their Premier League match against Chelsea on Saturday, including rainbow-branded ball plinths, LED boards and a dedicated article in the programme.