TWO projects focused on improving sport and play for youngsters have hit the back of the net after receiving a cash boost.

Colchester Academy and Little Oakley Youth Football Club will each receive £1,000 from the Persimmon Homes Building Futures scheme.

Colchester Academy, formerly the Sir Charles Lucas Arts College in Hawthorn Avenue, will use the money to renovate their gym.

Oakley Youth Football Club, meanwhile, will use their donation to help cover the cost of hiring the 3G facilities needed for training and ensure qualified coaching all year round.

Once lockdown is lifted, the club will return to offering weekly football training for more than 200 boys and girls aged six to 18.

Richard Hush, construction director at Persimmon Homes Essex, said: “Early access to sports and active play can create a healthy fitness habit that lasts a lifetime, so we are pleased to support these two worth causes.

“With so many chances to win vital funding for their projects, we urge charities, schools and sports clubs to apply online now.”

The initiative will see £1million given away across Britain to regional charities, groups, sports clubs and schools to improve local facilities and the delivery of vital community projects for people aged under 18.

Projects must make their applications to the Building Futures scheme at www.persimmonhomes.com/building-futures/ before the closing deadline on Sunday.