Having recently become one of the latest clubs to join the NPLFA programme, the Club are not only delighted with their inclusion in the NPLFA but are thrilled to carry the NPLFA logo on their first team home and away shirts for this coming season.

Through the support of the NPLFA's management company Eliteform, Widnes have become the second club to take advantage of a four-figure first team shirt sponsor, carrying the NPLFA logo this coming season.

Chairman Ian Ross said, "Everyone knows its difficult to raise funds if you want to be a progressive club which we want to be, and we really appreciate Eliteform's support in helping us work towards achieving this.

"With new clubs joining each year it's exciting to be involved in such a programme especially one that is totally managed."

Joint first team manager Kev Towey added, "It’s a great show of support by the Eliteform who manage the NPLFA programme.

"We really want to make this a success and know it will take time. We are committed to try and develop young people's lives both in education and football and this is the ideal route with a managed programme such as the NPLFA.

"Both myself and the new academy coach Danny Ventre will be taking the session on the 15th (August) to start to get to know the new recruits. We will be delighted to see any youngsters with aspirations to study and play who want to join the programme here at Widnes."

An Eliteform spokesman said, “It is great to see a club want to develop youth and have an understanding of what this programme can offer and that it simply does not happen over night and takes time.

"A club that offers a pathway to the first team and trusts in young players will reap the benefits both on and off the pitch as local people in the community like to see that and it helps create a pathway in their whole infrastructure.

"It is great that already the first team manager is taking a session which should encourage the young players around the surrounding areas to join."

The session with the first team manager and academy coach takes place on Wednesday 15th August, 1pm - 2.30pm at Prescot Soccer Centre, Warrington Road, Prescot, L35 5AD.