Director of Female Football Kevin Anderson says continuity was a key factor in appointing Steve Bartlett as the new boss of U’s Ladies.

Bartlett will work alongside Anderson in charge of Colchester Ladies in the FA Tesco Women’s Premier League Southern Division next season.

He has succeeded Dimitri Halajko, who recently left Colchester United Community Sports Trust (CUCST) to take up a position in the U’s youth department.

Anderson said: “Steve has been involved with the team for a few seasons now and will provide organisation and tactical know-how, as well as an in-depth knowledge of the players and the league.

“It was important with Dimitri moving on that we gave the programme some continuity and Steve is more than capable and deserving of taking on the lead role.

“I’m looking forward to working with Steve - we’ve had some good discussions about the way forward.“We can’t wait to get the pre-season under way.”

It has been a busy summer behind the scenes for the U’s Ladies.

Now completely under the umbrella of CUCST, the club will have greater administrative support and access to resources and facilities.

Anderson is the Trust’s first-ever Director of Female Football.

The former Millwall coach boasts playing and coaching experience at the highest levels in the United States. He has also served as head coach at the U's Girls Centre of Excellence.

In addition to coaching the senior Ladies sides, Anderson will also oversee all aspects of the Female Football Development Programme.

Colchester Ladies have also retained the services of physio Steve Spencer, while Tom Gooder and FC Clacton boss David Coyle will complete a quartet of UEFA B Licensed coaches within the senior set-up.

Coyle will also serve as Academy Manager and will be assisted by U’s Ladies first team star, Kate Longhurst.

Longhurst completed her UEFA B Licence earlier this summer and is now one of the youngest female coaches in the country to hold the award. Anderson added: “We now have the complete player pathway under one roof, fantastic administrative support and first class facilities.

“I feel our coaching staff is second to none.

“There has been a great foundation built here as evidenced by the quality of players we are graduating into the first team and even international squads.

“It’s a great opportunity now to build on that foundation and position Colchester United as a major player on the national female football stage.”

Colchester begin their pre-season training today.

Any experienced players interested in a trial period should contact Kevin Anderson on 07809 195001 or email kanderson@cucst.org.uk