FC CLACTON’S young footballers are set to take centre stage this weekend.

The club are hosting their annual youth section awards night, at the Rush Green Bowl on Saturday.

More than 250 players representing 20 teams will be involved and Seasiders co-owner Stephen Andrews described it as “one of his favourite days of the year”.

“It’s always a brilliant day – one we all look forward to – and the presentaions will take place in a huge marquee,” he said.

“There are so many players and their families that we break it into four sittings, starting at 11am, 2pm, 5pm and 8pm.”

There will be other attractions such a bouncy castle, rides and the Champions League final will be screened in the evening.

Meanwhile, Clacton are fielding a team in next season’s Essex Olympian Under-21 League.

It is the first time they have had an under-21 side.

It will be managed by Ian Scott, who has just guided the club’s under-16s to a league and cup double.

A trial night, for interested players, will be held soon and details will be announced shortly.

“It’s a real pathway from youth to senior football,” said Andrews.

“We’re all very excited about setting up a brand new team, in a new league for us.

“And we feel this side will be extremely important for us in continuing the long tradition the club has of developing the very best local youngsters.”