A FOOTBALL in the Community programme is set to be launched to take the place of the Colchester United Community Sports Trust.

The trust folded last month, with the loss of 38 jobs, having run sports, education, health and community activities for about 22,000 people.

But now Colchester United has stepped in to make sure aspiring youngsters do not lose out.

The new programme will see the U’s send coaches into nearly forty primary and secondary schools across the borough.

Tim Waddington, U’s General Manager, said: “We were saddened by the unfortunate closure of the Community Sports Trust, but we were equally determined that those that have benefited from the activities should not be impacted by its loss.

“Whilst there is obviously a significant commitment required from the club in time and resources to start our Football in the Community programme, it is clear that there are massive social benefits from ensuring these opportunities are available.

“As the professional club in the region, we are committed to ensuring that the excellent standards that we have developed at Colchester United can be extended across the local area, delivered by our own coaches.”

The club has also agreed to work with Colchester Council to help run the Shrub End Community Sports Centre, in Boadicea Way, where the former trust was based.