Barwick met Peter Varney, Charlton Athletic's Chief Executive to examine the Addicks' world-renowned community scheme, and also to discuss the subject on everyone's lips at the moment - Premiership attendances.

"I have been hugely impressed with the work Charlton do in their community," said Barwick. "I felt it would be beneficial to meet with Peter Varney and hear first-hand about the various programmes they run across a wide range of different areas.

"By reaching out to their community and undertaking a number of different ticketing and travel initiatives to get people to come to their games, Charlton are encouraging people from all walks of life to enjoy football and feel a part of their local club.

"At a time when Premiership attendances are very much in the news, this sort of positive approach can only be something which is good for all involved".

The two parties also took the opportunity to discuss the issue of women's football.

"We had a useful discussion," said Brian. "Charlton are one of the leading lights of the women's game in this country, and we have plenty to think about with regards to developing the game even further in the future, not least after the success of WOMEN'S EURO 2005." 

Every week in England some 7 million adults and 5 million children take part in football. More than 37,000 clubs play in 2,000 leagues on 45,000 pitches. Football is the number one school sport and the most popular participation sport for both sexes.

"Over 30 million people attend Premier and Football League matches every season" added Barwick. "The enormous support and passion that football enjoys is something we should never take for granted, because it is the foundation of our game."