TEENAGE footballers in Chippenham have received a major lift with all new kit from a local business sponsor.

John Williams Heating Services, based on Bumpers Farm in Chippenham, has covered the cost of new playing kit for FC Chippenham Youth U14s Cobras and Vipers.

Almost 30 young players are involved across both teams and train every Thursday evening at Stanley Park.

Head coach Rob Humphreys said: "The boys were so excited the night we gave the new kit out to them because it makes them feel more professional, more inspired and more like a team.

"It is great that a local business has felt able to invest in a local team. It gives us all a lift, including the parents who are really supportive."

It is not the first time the company, set up by John and Debbie Williams 11 years ago, has stepped in to help good causes having sponsored the Chippenham Half Marathon and the Wiltshire Emergency Services Show in the past.

On the sporting front, it regularly sponsors activities at Chippenham Rugby Club, recently providing the kit for the U13s team, and individually supporting up and coming player Dan Keat.

Mr Williams said: "Chippenham has given us a good, solid business so it is really important to put something back into the community."

The Williams' connection to the Chippenham U14s began with one of their heating engineers, Wayne Doman, who is a coach for the team, which includes his 13-year-old son Brandon.

Father of two Mr Doman, who lives in Pewsham, said: "The kit means everything to the boys. It looks nice, feels nice and does them good. We are so very grateful."