Following a successful inaugural Christmas Truce project, Brentford Under-12s have completed the task for a second-consecutive year.

The young Bees came together to complete a multi-faceted project that marked the armistice of WWI and 80 years since WWII.

Brentford joined clubs around the country in completing the project, which runs in line with a host of qualifying matches to decide which teams will represent England at the Truce Tournament in Ypres, Belgium.

Five clubs qualify for the tournament through their results, while another three gain entry through their project work, something Brentford achieved last year.

Led by Academy education tutor Jack Armstrong, the U12s created Advent calendars that included the stories of former Brentford players who died in battle during WWI.

The group then ventured out into Hounslow and Brentford to sell poppies to the public, raising money for the Royal British Legion to support the UK’s armed forces community.

The players volunteered at The Open Kitchen around the corner from Jersey Road, which provides food and supplies for those in need, many of whom are veterans.

To round out the community aspect of the project, the young Bees visited a local care home, taking home-made games to play with the residents to help support cognition and physical mobility. Veterans and those impacted by war also spoke to the players about their experiences.

To finish the project, the players wrote and performed a song commemorating the Christmas Truce, 80 years since WWII and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Speaking on the project, Armstrong said the players brought into the task and what it represented.

“This year’s project provided another great chance for our boys to come together and produce something really meaningful,” he said.

“They learnt a lot about the soldiers that fought and played for Brentford and interacted with people in a care home, learning about their stories, leading fun games and learning what it means to give back to the community.

“The chance to be creative in commemorating fallen soldiers was one the players grasped with both hands, and the result was really powerful.”

While the Bees were unsuccessful in qualifying for the Truce Tournament this year, the project is sure to leave a lasting impact on the players.