A FAMILY fun day at Yorkley AFC helped launch the club’s new youth section as it looks to expand football opportunities for young people across the community.

The event, held at Yorkley Recreation Ground on Saturday, May 30, brought together players, parents and supporters for an afternoon of football, entertainment and fundraising activities.

Organised to mark the launch of Yorkley Youth AFC, the day also served as a sign-on event for the club’s new under-14s side, which will become the first team in a planned youth setup running alongside Yorkley’s first team and recently-formed reserve side.

Visitors enjoyed a packed programme of activities between noon and 6pm, including a Dads vs Lads and Ladettes football match, a parents versus Yorkley select XI fixture, live music from singer Hannah May, a barbecue, ice cream van, tug of war and raffle.

Jamie Baker, who is helping lead the new youth section, said the club’s ambition is to create more opportunities for young players in the area and build a thriving youth pathway over the coming years.

The under-14s side is the first step in plans to develop additional age groups across the next 12 months, allowing more children from Yorkley and surrounding villages to take part in organised football close to home.

Club officials hope the expansion will strengthen links between the senior and youth sections while providing a positive environment for young players to develop their skills and enjoy the game.

The launch event attracted strong support from families and local residents, with organisers describing it as an important milestone for the club.

Yorkley AFC said it is keen to hear from parents and young players interested in joining the new youth setup as preparations continue ahead of the forthcoming season.

Anyone interested can find out more through Yorkley Youth AFC's social media channels.