Football clubs' merger aims to create a pathway from junior to senior football in Melton Mowbray

Melton Town FC and Melton Foxes Junior Football Club want to create a pathway from junior to senior football in the town after announcing a merger.

The two clubs have described the move as a 'natural evolution' which allows them to combine ideas and resources.

From next season the Foxes will be known as the Melton Town Foxes.

This merger will mean a new club badge and club colours, but the Foxes name will remain to remember the heritage of the junior club.

The Melton Town FC name will encompass the senior team, a possible development team and under 16s, 17s and 18s teams.

A statement issued said: "Both clubs have expressed a desire to create cradle to grave football, giving young boys and girls confidence, self discipline and self belief within a safe football environment.

"Melton Town Foxes will be able to call upon the experiences Melton Town FC have to help develop these young players from junior football to senior football."

Melton Mowbray's Paul Anderson, who came through the Foxes' junior ranks before playing for the likes of Nottingham Forest, Bristol City, Ipswich Town and Northampton Town, is backing the the merger and has offered coaching and advice whenever available.

"This amalgamation between the two clubs will provide a pathway from junior football to adult football," the statement added.

"Ensuring, during this transition, the best possibilities, facilities and community cohesion.

"These are exciting times for the town going forward benefiting all ages, both male and female.

"Both clubs would like to invite any and all on this fantastic journey."

Melton Town FC was established in 2004 and have risen from Division Two of the Leicester & District League to the United Counties League Division One.

They play at The Signright Park in the Melton Sports Village on Burton Road, Melton Mowbray under the stewardship of manager Tom Manship, chairman Matt Curtis, president Sam Ellis and secretary Carol Lewis.

The Foxes were established in 1985, in partnership with Mars Petcare, who continue to support the club and community.

They play at the Mars Sports Ground, Saxby Road.

The club is currently under going new branding to freshen up under the leadership of new club chairman Mark Marchington and secretary Duncan Shelley.

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