MORTON have kicked off a new era by opening a quiet room at Cappielow for families and fans with sensory needs.

The club's community arm has used the old blind commentary box within the main stand to create 'Cappie's Corner' - an area that is closed off and will offer a tailored space suitable for youngsters who need a more relaxed and calming environment to enjoy matches.

As well as having sensory equipment and being comfortably kitted out with padded seating, the smartly decorated space - developed in consultation with families - also has closing windows and doors for people who can find the experience of a game overwhelming.

The project has been in the pipeline for some time and the chief executive of Morton in the Community Brian McLaughlin says he is 'delighted' to see it come to life.

He told the Tele: "This has been something I have wanted to do for a long time.

"It is a way to remove barriers for fans who perhaps see coming to Cappielow as a challenge.

"It's a quiet and safe space that is closed off but still in the stand, to make it still feel inclusive.

"Ideally we'd like to expand it and keep making it bigger and better, we're hoping to get feedback from families and see how we can constantly improve it to make it as good as possible.

"It would also be great to get a sponsor on board to help with maintenance and upkeep costs - it's now something we always see being part of the club."

Brian says he is excited at the prospect of welcoming fans to the safe space - named after Morton's popular mascot - as the new season begins.

He said: "It's really about making the experience as inclusive as possible - anything we can do to help make coming to Cappielow easier, we will."

Whilst the project was lead by Morton in the Community, it has been backed by everyone at Cappielow.

Former chief executive Chris Ross played his part in getting it up and running and first team boss Dougie Imrie has given it the thumbs up.

Club secretary Brendan McEleny added: "The work on improving and changing lives that Morton in the Community dedicates itself to doing every single day shows how much of a positive impact it has on the entire football club.

"We're all delighted to see Cappie’s Corner looking amazing and waiting for the first family to use it.

"Getting to make the whole experience more inclusive is what the club is all about - hopefully it encourages families to come along."

To book Cappie's Corner for matches families should email info@mortoncommunity.net