A KESGRAVE youth team which gives boys the chance to train under former Ipswich Town legend John Wark could fold because of a shortage of youngsters.

John Howard

A KESGRAVE youth football team which gives boys the chance to train under former Ipswich Town legend John Wark could fold because of a shortage of youngsters.

Despite having secure sponsorship, top coaches and enthusiastic supporters, Kes United under 13s now only has four young players left.

Some have moved onto academies - including Ipswich Town - and others simply no longer have the time to commit to the club which competes at a division one level in the Ipswich & Suffolk Youth Football League on Sundays.

Trials were held yesterday at the Gresham sports ground in Ipswich for boys to try out for the squad.

The successful candidates will then have the chance to train with Wark and other coaches.

Pauline Salmon-Stow, club treasurer, said: “We have lost one player to Ipswich Town's Academy, which is thrilling, and have one boy who is being considered for another academy.

“One youngster travelled from Colchester and has decided it is just too far, others have discovered girls and dropped away.

“We want boys who want to play division one football, it is as popular as ever if not more so, and we have John Wark running training sessions.

“This is a young Ipswich team, and a great family side, it is just such a shame that the club could fold after three years if we can not get some more players.”

A spokesman for Ipswich Town Football Club said: “The professional footballers of tomorrow will be playing park football today.

“But, more importantly, youth football provides opportunities for youngsters to get some healthy exercise and learn the values of working in a team. It's vital those opportunities continue.”

N To find out more about Kes United under 13s and how to join call Pauline Salmon-Stow on 01728 604999.