THERE were cheers — and more than a few stunned faces — at Timsbury Recreational Ground as players from the Timsbury Lionesses received a surprise message from none other than England and Arsenal star Beth Mead.

The Euro 2022 Golden Boot winner recorded a personal video for the club’s young girls’ teams, praising the spirit and talent of grassroots girls’ football — and giving a special nod to Timsbury’s efforts in developing the next generation.

In the video, Mead told the young Lionesses: "Keep working hard, keep enjoying your football, and you never know — maybe one day I'll be watching you play for England! You’re doing amazingly well, and I love that you’ve got such great support around you."

The message was made even more special by the timing — recorded during a break in training as Mead prepares to represent England at the UEFA Women’s Euros. With this incredible gesture, Timsbury hope to inspire more girls aged 4–12 to give football a go — whether they’re complete beginners, returning to the game, or looking to push their skills further.

Timsbury Lionesses, part of Timsbury Athletic Youth FC, have quickly built a reputation as one of the most inclusive and forward-thinking setups in the region. The club’s coaching philosophy is rooted in long-term development, confidence-building and making football enjoyable for all abilities — not just the most competitive.

“This message from Beth is more than a moment of star power,” said Rowan Long, club spokesperson and girls’ football lead. “It feels like a genuine endorsement of everything we believe in — that every girl deserves high-quality coaching, a welcoming environment, and the chance to thrive. We’re not here to sell elite football to the few. We’re here to build something better for everyone.”

“At the heart of the club is a simple belief: great coaching should be the standard — not a premium extra. “