NEW kit starts a new season for boys playing in FC Newton St Cyres' Under 13s team, thanks to sponsorships by Crediton businesses Evans News and Express Cars.

FC Newton U13 play in Division Three of the Exeter Youth League. Their manager Matt Blackmore, a level one and level two professional football coach, said there is much potential in the team.

"We are so lucky to have the facilities at Newton St Cyres, I know the Recreation Ground committee, groundsman and secretary do endless work, it is a wonderful job.

"This is a good club because you have the support of parents. We have plans for the team, we shall try to take them to a premiership match and I can take them to Exeter City games," said Matt.

"We have a strong team of 17 lads and they have a good attitude towards football," added Matt.

F C Newton also runs an U8 and U10 side and there are also Newton St Cyres AFC's two senior sides who play in the Devon and Exeter Football League.

Bernie Miller, proprietor of Evans News on Crediton High Street, gave the black and yellow strip that will be used for away games.

Bernie explained that they also sponsor Crediton United FC juniors. He also admires the work of the coaches and volunteers who run the rural teams.

"It is a good idea because it gives the young players a chance to, perhaps, progress to play for bigger teams. It is also mainly the people such as Matt who give up their time, who volunteer to help the young players.

"It would be nice if the corporate companies involved in Crediton gave something back to the area, helped give opportunities for young people in the rural areas as well as Crediton," Bernie added.

The strip sponsored by Express Cars was formally handed over by driver Karen Lawes. This all black kit will be worn at home games.

Matt added: "We have two wonderful sponsors and great new kit for a new season."