Chelsea Football Club and the game's grassroots came together last week in what is hoped will be an example of the beneficial effects of the universal language of football.

A west London community close to Heathrow Airport and not far from Chelsea's former training ground at Harlington is set to gain from the new facilities of the Beavers Sports Lodge. Chelsea was able to support the new project, including our ambassador Graeme Le Saux officially opening the building and accompanying pitches.

'Community-based football is the basis for the game's existence and engaging young people in any sport is very important because it can deliver so many things, including team building and physical activity to let off steam,' Le Saux said.

'It's important that Chelsea as a club shows on a regular basis how committed we are to community projects.

'I've enjoyed it here and one little boy tried to nutmeg me which was hard to stop wearing the jeans I am!'

The Sports Lodge received funding from the Football Foundation and local businesses, plus fundraising activities. It will be used by a local school during the day and then outside groups at evenings and weekends.

Local MP Alan Keen, chair of the All Party Parliamentary Football Group, was also in attendance and, despite being a keen Middlesbrough fan, was happy to commend Chelsea for our support.

'This is going to bring the community on a deprived estate together where it has not been acting as a community for a long time.

'Thank you to Chelsea for their contribution and it was great to see Graeme here. Kids identify with Premier League clubs. If kids play sport together they will feel team-mates and friends and it will help bring together people from many different backgrounds.'