Alfreton Town Football Club is launching the second phase of its Community Academy initiative.

The latest development gives local young people the chance to gain sports leadership qualifications through a pioneering apprenticeship programme.

The club, promoted last season to the Blue Square Bet Premier Division, works with Derby College to recruit the apprentices.

The aim is to have up to 40 apprentices at the club in the next 12 months who will be working full time with local schools and community groups to provide free or low cost sporting activities for children and young people whilst working towards NVQ level three qualifications in Activity Leadership.

April Hayhurst, head of employer engagement at Derby College, said: “Having recruited the first four apprentices for the club, we are now working with coaches and young people to start qualifications which will be invaluable for their future working lives.

“We are starting recruitment for the next stage of 20 young people and are confident that we will be a great response from young people who will be keen to take advantage of this exciting and pioneering programme.”