ST Johns Colts are celebrating after being awarded a £1,500 Grow The Game grant and receiving praise from England manager Gareth Southgate.

The grant has paved the way for a drop-in training session for girls and boys.

The Worcester football club aim to develop three girls' teams over a three-year period with qualified coaches in under nines and under 14s age groups.

Football Foundation ambassador Southgate said: “I am so pleased St Johns have secured this Grow the Game grant.

"The club have worked very hard with Worcestershire FA and the foundation to get more local people playing football so they can enjoy the many physical and mental benefits that come with playing regular sport.

“Grow the Game is mainly funded by the FA and delivered by the foundation.

"This is money that is flowing from the very top of the game down to the lowest levels to help clubs at the grassroots to bear the cost of starting up a new team, whether it be for a new kit, pitch hire or sending volunteers on FA-accredited coaching courses.”

Colts chairman Mark Webb said: "We are really pleased to have secured this funding from the foundation.

"As a community-based club our passion is to offer football to all those interested in taking part regardless of experience or ability."

The club are on Facebook @Stjohnscoltsfc.