SWINDON Town Football in the Community’s centre of excellence is busy fundraising as they plan for a trip to the World Youth Cup this summer.

Girls’ squads from the under 15 and under 19 age groups are planning on attending the event in Sweden in July, but the adventure comes at a cost and the Trust is being proactive as they search for financial backing.

On Friday, February 11 the Trust is organising a tournament at Croft Sports Centre for over 100 girls between the ages of seven and 13.

Programme manager Shane Hewlett said: "The girls have been really proactive about raising money and came up with the suggestion of running a tournament.

“Lots of preparation has gone into the day and it would not happen if we would had not received the support from local businesses such as Verologic It Solutions and Trak Employment Solutions, who have come on board as sponsors."

Meanwhile, the girls will complete their busy schedule assisting on the STFC development week staff during the February half term, where more than 150 children are expected to be in attendance, before finishing off by playing Swansea City on Friday, February 15.

Amy Baker, who plays for the under 19s, said: "It will be a really busy week but we all can't wait to get to Sweden and to win it for Swindon would be a fantastic achievement.

“We have been touched by how many people from around the Town have offered to help and that is inspiring us to make sure we help ourselves.”

This tournament is available to players in the programme or girls who have never played before, and anyone interested in taking part should contact Hewlett on 01793 617718 or via Shane@stfc-fitc.co.uk for more details.