A MOTTINGHAM football club has been handed a welcome £5,000 grant from the Football Foundation.

Russellers FC will use the cash injection, which is part of the Foundation’s grow the Game initiative, to develop at least three new mini soccer teams over the three years in which the money will be received.

The grant will also be used to fund facility hire, league affiliation fees and FA coaching courses to build up a new breed of coaches for the club and secure a lasting legacy for grassroots football in the area.

Russellers have been providing football to youngsters for more than 20 years.

Delivered every Saturday morning at Cold Harbour Leisure Centre, the financial assistance will help to provide a fun environment for boys and girls aged four years and over and to learn the fundamentals of football.

Russellers FC chairman Ben Murphy said: “We are absolutely delighted with the award from the Football Foundation.

“It will deliver a lasting legacy for our club, Mottingham and the surrounding areas.

“Girls and boys aged from four years and above now have a chance to keep fit and have fun on a Saturday morning.

“We look forward to kicking off the programme with our mini soccer open day on July 13.”

Football Foundation chief executive Paul Thorogood added: “Congratulations to Russellers FC for working with the London FA to secure their £5,000 Grow the Game grant.

“This will increase participation in the region, as well as support football development in the area.”

For more information, email Ben Murphy on russellersjfc@googlemail.com

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