The Wakes are launching a one-year football and sports course in partnership with a college.

Students will train at Abbey Lawn every day while studying towards nationally recognised qualifications, such as an NVQ and the FA Level 1 Certificate in Coaching Football.

They will also play for Bourne's new Under-19 team in a Wednesday afternoon league and, it's hoped, will go on to appear in the senior teams.

Coaching will be by a UEFA A badge holder, although not new Wakes manager Neil Thorpe.

Bourne assistant manager John Chand is the man behind bringing the course to Abbey Lawn and is excited about what it will mean for the club.

He said: "I feel that this is a major step for Bourne Town FC in the further development of the club.

"The course will give students the opportunity of gaining nationally recognised qualifications while playing full-time football.

"The course is something that will become a focal point of the club as it will bring local players to Bourne Town.

"I hope to see some of these players progress through the reserves and first team and in turn on to clubs higher in the football pyramid.

"This could only be good for Bourne Town.

"I see the course as a permanent part of the club now and in the future would look to maybe increase the course to more than the initial 20 students."

For course details or to book a place e-mail btfc@btconnect.com or call 07912 580584.