A YOUNG footballer from Preston is to get a shooting chance to score a career in the top flight -- thanks to a grant from the Prince's Trust.

James Marsh, 16, from Tarleton High School, in Hesketh Lane, Preston, has played football all his life and currently turns out for both his school team and Hesketh Bank FC as a talented centre midfield player.

Through CareerLink, based in Guildhall Street, Preston, James applied for a Prince's Trust Development Award that was fully supported by the teaching staff at the school.

The £400 cash boost will help James buy the necessary equipment to pursue his dream of becoming a footballer and get to the trials many clubs have offered him.

James, who is currently revising for his end of year exams and lives in Chapel Street, Hesketh Bank, said: "It's my dream to be a professional footballer and CareerLink is helping me achieve that!

"I'm also hoping to go on to college to do Sports Studies that will help me in my career.

"To be honest, this award has opened up a whole range of opportunities for me!"

With a helping hand from Janet Finn, CareerLink's project advisor, James put together a portfolio of his awards, certificates and sporting achievements which were then presented to the Prince's Trust judging panel.

Janet Finn added: "We are absolutely delighted that we can help James in this way to fulfil his potential.

"By all accounts he is a fantastic footballer, bit just needed some financial assistance to be able to travel to trials.

"We were more than happy to help James and I'm sure he will go from strength to strength."