RADCLIFFE Borough have taken steps to develop the club's youth and community affairs following the appointment of a full-time community football development officer, writes STEVE BOTT.

Robin Philp will be based in an office at the new complex currenty under construction at Stainton Park. His appointment is a joint partnership with Bury MBC and Radcliffe Borough Football Club and his main aim is to raise the football club's profile within the local community.

"We are hoping to initiate a youth system and get junior teams on board along with girls, womens and teams for the disabled," said Robin, who has previously worked with Manchester United and Adidas.

"I will be visiting schools around Radcliffe doing in-school coaching and we are hoping to attract these children to take part in the soccer schools we will be running at the club," said Robin, who is a qualified FA coach.

"I have been coaching for ten years and have my FA preliminary badge. I was at Manchester United for four years and have also worked with Adidas. I also intend to take my UEFA badge as soon as possible," said 25-year-old Robin, who originally hails from Haydon Bridge near Hexham in Northumberland.

A left winger himself, Robin had trials with Lincoln City and has played at semi-professional level. He is currently living in Summerseat and also is linked with the council's offices at the Castle Leisure centre in Bury town centre.