THE Blackburn and District Combination will run an under 21s division next season to help bridge the gap between junior and senior football.

The league has the backing of the Lancashire FA in the initiative which is part of the National Game Strategy.

And the scheme also has the support of the East Lancashire Football Alliance which plays up to under 18s level.

Combination secretary Bill Markham believes setting up such a division will help ensure a firm pathway for youth players in to open age football.

He said: “We have recognised that there is a big difference for teams currently playing at under 18s to step straight into adult football and it is hoped that by offering this intermediate stage, these teams could stay together and perhaps then make the transmission into adult football. “We are supported by the FA and the LFA. We have also been in contact with various youth leagues that currently operate up to U18 level including the East Lancashire Football Alliance, whose secretary, Craig Wilkinson has been very supportive.”

John Treacy, LFA League Development Officer believes such a move will help solve the problem of young players walking away from the game.

He said: “There are problems and issues in all areas of grassroots football, including the drop off of young players as they reach the adult age group and move into adult open age football.

“There are great young players out there and they should not be lost to the game and there is no reason why they cannot continue from U18s to U21s and eventually onto open age football.”

For details, contact Bill Markham on 01254 54486 or 07909 643527 or email wpmref@hotmail.com or John Treacy on 01772 624000.