'Cambridge 'Til I Die' - Storytelling and Writing Sessions a Huge Success
As part of the 'Cambridge 'Til I Die' book project, and in conjunction with the National Literacy Trust (NLT), two Storytelling & Writing sessions were recently held at the Cambridge United Learning Centre. Designed to help promote literacy skills within the community and amongst the United fan base, the sessions organised by Doug Shulman, co-coordinator of the Cambridge 'Til I Die project, proved a huge success. The first day was allocated for United's scholars as well as local schoolchildren connected with the Community Trust youth scheme. Professionals from the NLT and Legends Publishing were in attendance, guiding the youngsters through several reading exercises, whilst prompting them to put down on paper their early experiences of being connected with Cambridge United. Sincere thanks go to Blaine Hudson, Jack Eades and Luke Berry, who came along to encourage and integrate with the youngsters.
The second day was an open session for supporters and local groups and was very well attended. Not everyone is confident of their own literacy skills, so it was good to see so many U's fans coming along to share stories and experiences of following United throughout the years. The day produced some amazing tales that may well compliment the Cambridge 'Til I Die publication, and would not have been possible had the sessions not been held. CFU wishes to thank Helen Paterson at the Learning Centre for kindly offering the facilities to us, likewise several first team players who were present at the event. Encouragingly, Paul Carden, James Jennings, Kevin Roberts, Daryl Clare and coach John Schofield were already aware of the project but, were keen to learn more, mix with supporters and pose for local press. Our thanks also to Will Jones for helping arrange their attendance and to Fans Elected Director Colin Proctor for coming along on both days.
This aspect of the project was not only successful in honing reading and writing skills, but also raised the profile of both CFU and CUFC within the community, whilst providing a worthy build up to the launch of Cambridge 'Til I Die on 16th October.
The launch event will be held in the Dublin Suite (under the Main Stand) prior to the home fixture with Barrow. A mix of current and former players have been invited to the occasion, whilst several fans have offered to read out their stories. Full details, for what is sure to be a fun occasion, will be available in the next few days on both the CFU & CUFC websites and in the local press. Likewise information on how to collect your pre-ordered copy of the book. We look forward to welcoming fans on the day but, as tickets will be in great demand, please keep your eyes peeled for those press details to ensure you reserve your ticket in time!
The project has evoked huge interest from U's fans and we have seen vast numbers of pre-orders. The book is on course to be a sell-out and stocks will be limited at launch on 16th October. Fans are therefore urged to reserve their copy as soon as possible in order to avoid disappointment.
Cambridge 'Til I Die is destined to become a collector's item and costs just £10 (or £13.60 inclusive of UK P&P if required). You can pre-order online athttp://www.tilidie.co.uk/buy.html or simply email douglas.shulman@ntlworld.com to register your interest in purchasing.