Everton captain Seamus Coleman has given one supporter a heart-warming phone call as part of the club's new Blue Family campaign.
The Blues right-back made the surprise call to Dave Howells - who is a lifelong Evertonian, an Everton In The Community participant and an army veteran.
Dave, who served in the forces for 10 years, is a participant in Everton in the Community’s ‘Everton Veterans’ Hub’ programme. He has been attending regular EitC sessions for the past year after his medical discharge from the military left him feeling lonely and isolated.
The defender called up to offer his support during the coronavirus pandemic, which has seen many across the country undertake periods of self-isolation in an attempt to stop the rapid spread of the virus.
In a heartwarming video released on Everton's Twitter account, Dave can be heard saying: "I can't believe you've called me!
"You know I'm sat on the sofa here, we've got Martin Lewis, I've got my '83 Everton top on with my North Face trackies and my dressing gown on. I'm just about to take the dog out before bed!
"Seamus, thank you very much."
On Thursday, Everton announced the launch of their Blue Family campaign to combat feelings of loneliness during isolation and help society's most vulnerable and at risk members.
The 'Blue Family' campaign will maintain and extend the reach of the club and the charity following the closure of all club sites last week, the suspension of football fixtures and the postponement of most community programme delivery.
The club will be providing £50,000 to fund the launch and initial activities and will be reallocating club and community staff to ensure the effective delivery of the campaign.
