FOOTBALLERS on Oxfordshire’s largest estate have netted £5,000 to start two new teams for children.

Greater Leys Youth Football Club has pocketed the cash thanks to a grant from the Football Foundation, the country’s largest sports charity.

It means the club, set up in 2008, can start another under-eights team and under-10s team.

At the moment, the club coaches seven teams for different age groups and has about 140 members. The cash will bring in 40 new players.

The grant will go on hiring facilities for training, coaching courses and qualified coaches.

Club founder and chairman Nick Courtney-Cramp, 42, said: “The grant will provide the two age groups concerned with a perfect foundation to grow the beautiful game.”

Mr Courtney-Cramp, from Columbine Gardens, Greater Leys, added: “It’s going to be extremely helpful, funds are very tight nationally especially for community and youth groups.

“It’s a huge boost. It’s vital for the club. Football is a nationwide sport and it’s followed by thousands worldwide and it is popular in Blackbird Leys.

“The World Cup was a big influence. We have children coming along now just because their friends come along.”

He said the money would help keep the teams going for the next two or three years.

Last year, the club was given a Charter Standard Club award by the Oxfordshire Football Association.

Ten voluntary coaches train children at Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre and in the nearby park in summer.

The Football Foundation launched 10 years ago and has supported 8,000 community sports projects to the tune of £925m.

Paul Thorogood, chief executive of the Football Foundation, said: “Sport is playing a central role in helping people to stay fit, strengthen communities and promote responsibility amongst young people.

“This new project in Blackbird and Greater Leys is but one example of thousands across the country that the Football Foundation is supporting with money provided by our funding partners, the Premier League, The FA and Government.”

The club is looking for sponsors and members. For details call Mr Courtney-Cramp on 01865 401625.

eallen@oxfordmail.co.uk