THREE up-and-coming young soccer stars, who are about to complete their training and studies with Evesham College's now well established Football Academy, have been offered prestigious places with local clubs next season.

Jamie Faulkner, (18), from Stratford-on-Avon, has been signed for next year by Dr Marten's league team, Gloucester City.

Damien Carter, (18), from Redditch, is already playing with Bromsgrove, and has been offered a place at Alvechurch next season.

Luke Tovey, (18), from Cheltenham, is currently playing with Gloucester City, and is hoping to continue and be signed with them for next season.

Course tutor, Lee Perry, said: "Their two years' hard work and dedication to their training and studies has certainly paid off.

"I am proud to think that, although the lads have been signed as a result of their own talent and ability, it is the College that has forged the links between the clubs and prospective players."

An International Triath-lete himself, Lee is looking forward to another successful year at college next term.

He will be joined by Paul Willis, an ex-coach to Olympic silver medallist pentathlete, Graham Broo-khouse, and Geoff Samuels, coach and ex-professional player.

Both professionals will be involved with the fitness programmes and over ten hours training per week of the Academy squad.

September also sees the launch of the new Wom-en's Football Academy, another School of Excellence, that will incorporate the same gruelling training schedules and require the same academic study already undertaken by the young men.

Anyone interested in attending trials or wanting further information on either men or women's academies should contact Lee on 01386 712655.