Colchester United have signed teenager striker Ken Charles on a development contract.

The 18-year-old has signed a deal with the U's for this season, after impressing during an extended trial in pre-season.

Charles was spotted by Colchester playing non-league football for Erith Town, in the Southern Counties League.

The young forward, who also turned out for Maidstone United's under-18 side, netted for Colchester's under-23s in their 2-0 win over Charlton Athletic last night, in Professional Development League Two.

Charles told the U's website: "I've only just turned 18 and the aim is to get as much game time as possible with the U's.

"I've seen that the club's target is to have the first team with 50 per cent academy graduates in it which can only be a positive for any young player coming into the club."