GUNNISLAKE Football Club has taken on a second pitch and set up a youth football club for the first time in its history.

More than 20 children have already signed up for the Young Gunns and it is hoped teams will start competing in leagues next year in under 14s, under 12s and under 9s.

The youth football initiative, which has been welcomed with open arms in the village where there are few activities for young people, is all down to volunteer Mark Hayden, who recently moved into Gunnislake and has a background in teaching football to children.

At the same time Gunnislake FC has decided to take on the football pitch at St Ann's Chapel after the St Ann's team moved to Bere Alston to play, ending an 88-year history. This has opened up opportunities for more matches to be played and additional training for the Gunnislake club.

Club secretary Mike Kinger, secretary of the year in the recent Duchy League awards, said as far as he was aware there had never been a youth football club: 'There has certainly been nothing in the last 23 years.

'I think the youth club tried to set something up a couple of years ago but the funding was not available.

'It's great that Mark has come along and we can now bring youngsters on and keep them playing in the village. They usually have to be taken to Callington or Tavistock to play.'

Mr Kinger said there was also interest in setting up a ladies' team: 'With a reserve pitch we can keep the football going every week. When the pitch at Gunnislake is flooded we can use the one at St Ann's.'

Mark Hayden is a fully qualified coach who works part-time for Goals soccer centre in Plymouth. He has also been involving in setting up a club at Plymouth Argyle for young people with disabilities and special learning needs.

'I have been able to combine youth work with my passion for football,' he said. 'Football is a great way of getting across to young people and making them realise they can do something with their lives. There is enough stuff out there to mess it up but this may give them a chance.'

Mr Hayden said each week the numbers were growing as word was going around and one of the Gunnislake players was helping with training for the 10-12-year-olds. There were also sessions for 7-9-year-olds and 13-16-year-olds. Training takes place on Monday and Wednesday evenings at the St George Playing Field in Gunnislake.

'Hopefully this time next year we will look to have at least two or three teams ready to enter a league.'

Anyone who wants to find out more about the Young Gunns can contact Mr Hayden on 07504 140168. Gunnislake Football Club would also welcome any new committee members, helpers and players.