RAMSBOTTOM United FC is to offer a new joint two-year BTEC diploma and football course for school leavers.

The Rams’ junior section has teamed up with Chorley firm Onside Sports to introduce the Government-backed scheme. It includes a BTEC level three extended diploma, which is worth up to three A levels and allows university access.

It will also offer footballing qualifications such as level one coaching badges and six hours of training every week with the club’s coaches.

The Evo-Stik League club will launch two new teams at under-18 and under-21 level and regular games will take place against other sides in those age brackets.

Anyone interested in joining should email info@onsidesports education.co.uk to register their interest.