YOUNG footballers at two schools in the area will have the chance to take part in a new academy.

Durham Federation schools Fyndoune Community College, in Sacriston, and Durham Community Business College, in Ushaw Moor are launching the academies with the help of Evolution Football Coaching.

Young players who show talent will be able to get free coaching as part of their school curriculum, aimed at using the sport as a driver for academic development.

Evolution director Gary Smith said: “As elite coaches, we want to unearth and develop new talent and prepare them for all the things required of a modern footballer.

“But we also want to promote fitness and wellbeing among students. A healthy body equals a healthy mind and good habits adopted at a young age tend to stick with people as they grow.”

“We want to assist in the overall development of the individual and give them an opportunity to progress in the game as a player, coach or other profession.”

Recruitment is underway for the academy, which will launch in September.