The beautiful game and NHS Lanarkshire have helped transform the life of an Airdrie man who was battling an alcohol addiction.

Ian Clark’s social alcohol habit developed into an addition in 2013 after the death of his mother.

It resulted in him being hospitalised in 2016 following a seizure and a realisation that he had to turn his life around.

While in University Hospital Monklands he came into contact with the integrated addiction service which helped him get his addiction under control and introduced him to the team Clyde United.

Ian said: “A large part of my recovery can be attributed to my involvement in the team and being physically active.

“I did have initial fears as I was worried that if one of the lads went off the rails, I would join them.

“But that’s just not the case as everyone is so friendly and supports one another.

“As we all have either mental health or addiction issues, there is a shared understanding that we never have alcohol during any social occasion we organise.

“They’ve also became good pals.”

Clyde United is the result of a partnership between NHS Lanarkshire, North Lanarkshire Leisure (NLL) and Clyde FC Community Foundation.

Martin Tobin, healthcare support worker, helped set the team up.

He said: “We wanted to provide these individuals with a positive diversionary outlet to enable them to get fit and healthy and socialise with peers.

“Clyde and NLL got on board and we’ve created something that has been integral to transforming the lives of so many men.”

To cap off a remarkable journey the team recently picked up their first pieces of silverware and took on the Scottish Parliament MSP football team at Broadwood Stadium.

To find out more about Clyde United, contact: Sharon Gusman, Health Improvement practitioner on 0141 779 8199 or email on Global