BARNES & WALKER SURPRISE YOUNG PEOPLE AT LAUNCH OF THE MARC EDWARDS LEGACY PROJECT

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Players make special visit to new community project

2026-03-06T17:00:00.000Z

BARNES & WALKER SURPRISE YOUNG PEOPLE AT LAUNCH OF THE MARC EDWARDS LEGACY PROJECT

Players make special visit to new community project

2026-03-06T17:00:00.000Z

Players make special visit to new community project

First-team players Ashley Barnes and Kyle Walker marked a memorable milestone this month, when they made a surprise visit to Burnley FC in the Community’s new programme, the Marc Edwards Legacy Project.

The programme honours lifelong supporter Marc Edwards, and is designed to help young people across Burnley and Pendle build confidence, gain new skills and access mentoring, qualification pathways and unforgettable experiences – kicked off in true style with the two players making an appearance!

As the first cohort of young people arrived back at Turf Moor from a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, they were met with first-team players Kyle Walker and Ashley Barnes, waiting to greet them in the Jimmy McIlroy Stand lounge.

What followed was an afternoon filled with energy, connection, and the competitive spirit Marc himself was known for.

BARNES & WALKER SURPRISE YOUNG PEOPLE AT LAUNCH OF THE MARC EDWARDS LEGACY PROJECT - Image 1

A Special Visit to Inspire the Next Generation

Walker and Barnes spent time chatting to the group, sharing stories and taking part in a series of interactive icebreaker challenges designed to build teamwork and confidence - key themes at the heart of the Legacy Project.

Laughter filled the room as the teams tackled marshmallow tower challenges, quick‑thinking problem‑solving tasks, and the highlight of the day: a head‑to‑head “water cup challenge”, which saw Walker and Barnes go up against each other to the delight of the young people.

Their presence brought a level of excitement and inspiration that elevated the launch beyond expectations.

BARNES & WALKER SURPRISE YOUNG PEOPLE AT LAUNCH OF THE MARC EDWARDS LEGACY PROJECT - Image 2

A Family Legacy Celebrated

Members of the Edwards family joined the event, witnessing first-hand the impact Marc’s values - and now his legacy - are already having on local young people.

The launch embodied what the project stands for: belief in others, investing in potential, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive. These principles reflect the way Marc lived and the way he supported those around him.

A Fitting Start in Memory of a True Claret

The Marc Edwards Legacy Project will continue throughout 2026, offering mentoring, personal development opportunities, qualification pathways, and unforgettable experiences at Turf Moor and Whitehough Outdoor Centre.

The first cohort could not have asked for a more inspiring start, and the presence of two first-team players made the day a truly memorable celebration of a man whose legacy will continue to empower future generations.

A fantastic launch in memory of a true Claret.