A YOUTH football team has two new teams thanks to a grant aimed at boosting grassroots sport.

Shincliffe Juniors has been given £3,000 as part of the Grow the Game programme, funded by the Football Association (FA) and delivered by the Football Foundation.

The grant has paved the wave for additional coaching and the development of new teams for both under 12 girls and under 15 boys.

Dave Glover, chairman of Shincliffe Juniors, said: “From the very inception of Shincliffe Juniors Football Club we have been committed to growing and nurturing grassroots football and making it as widely available as we can.

“Our ethos is based on inclusivity so that we can grow and sustain a club which offers young players an opportunity to enjoy football, have fun and grow in confidence in a safe and supportive environment.”

England manager and Football Foundation Ambassador Gareth Southgate said: “The club has worked very hard with Durham County FA and the Football Foundation to get more local people playing football so that they can enjoy the many physical and mental benefits that come with playing regular sport.”