A BURNLEY-based football academy is looking for even more success next year.

Mentors of Excellence in Football Scheme is going from strength to strength having set up a team in an East Lancashire league and also forged links with Stalybridge Celtic FC.

The academy, the brainchild of Majid Shafiq, has already seen one local player make his debut for the high-flying Blue Square North side.

Now the aim is to help other young players get on the ladder towards possible professional football.

Scott Cawtherley is on Stalybridge Celtic’s U21s programme and education scheme and there are big hopes for him.

“Scott is one early example that MEFS is progressing players to full time professional clubs,” said Majid, who is also manager of education and player development at Stalybridge Celtic. “He is the only player so far but there are several other players now knocking on the door for opportunities at North West Counties and Evo Stik clubs who have direct links with us.”

MEFS has an open age team in the Accrington Combination who have started their debut season in fine form.

Next year the aim is to expand to four teams, with plans to add a reserve open age team, an under 19s team and an under 17s team.

The club has also recruited new coaches including former Aston Villa youth team player Josh Sheppard.