COLCHESTER United threw open its doors to welcome new and old fans.

The Weston Homes Community Stadium hosted the open day to introduce its new squad and showcase its community work.

First team players signed autographs and showed off their skill during a demonstration training session.

The youth team held coaching sessions for up-and-coming stars and ran traditional stalls.

Fire crews gave safety advice while the U’s charity partners, Little Havens Children’s Hospice, the Tom Bowdidge Foundation, Essex Carers’ Support and Headway Essex provided information and advice.

Eddie the Eagle came home victorious in the mascots’ race to the applause of the crowd.

Spokesman Matt Hudson said: “For us, it was a showcase of what we do and the springboard into the new season.

“Community involvement is important to us.

“In 2014, 260,000 people came to the stadium, of which 92,000 came to see the football. The rest were for community and business events.

“We finished last season on a real high and there were a lot of positives to carry into next season.”

Colchester United takes on West Ham tonight in a friendly.

There are still tickets available.

For more information, go to www.cu-fc.com.