WICKFORD Town FC looks set to become one of the largest youth football clubs in Essex following the opening of a state-of-the-art changing pavilion.

The new addition, which has doubled the number of changing rooms at Bartlett Park, was officially unveiled by Wickford and Rayleigh MP Mark Francois.

Funding of just under £400,000 for the works came from the Premier League and The FA Facilities Fund, which is delivered by the Football Foundation.

The club’s pavilion now comprises four team changing rooms, two changing rooms for match-day officials and increased access to the toilets.

There is also a clubroom with kitchen and servery area.

Wickford Town Youth FC chairman Clive Lodge said: “I would like to thank Mark Francois MP for opening our new facility.

“Additionally, we would like to thank Brendan Walshe and the Essex County Football Association for their continual support over the last few years in making this happen.

“The club has received support from the Premier League and The FA Facilities Fund alongside additional funding providers, and years of fundraising from club members.

“Without this support and funding, the project would never have been achieved.”

He added: “The new facilities now give the club a home in the local area, which provides recreational facilities to over 500 children and young people to use a week.”

It is hoped that the improved provision will enable the club to attract a further 20 teams, taking the total number of sides from 37 to 61.

There are also plans to establish four new girls’ and one ladies’ side in addition to the two ladies’ sides already run by the club.

Meanwhile, Wickford Rotary Trust and Essex Boys and Girls Club will both use the site for meetings and events.

Wickford Town FC’s youth sides have previously produced Brentford goalkeeper Daniel Bentley and former Southend United manager Steve Tilson.