WOMEN S football in Hungtindonshire is set for a huge boost as one of just a handful of women s football courses is being set up in the district. The new course will run at Huntingdonshire Regional College following huge demand from local girls and women.

WOMEN'S football in Hungtindonshire is set for a huge boost as one of just a handful of women's football courses is being set up in the district.

The new course will run at Huntingdonshire Regional College following huge demand from local girls and women.

The women's football development centre will not only arrange football tournaments and training but students will also leave with an array of coaching qualifications.

During the first year, students will study for a City and Guilds qualification in sports science while the second year will see them work towards a BTEC Diploma in sport and coaching qualifications.

The centre has already been running a boys' course for three years but after numerous calls from females, the new course for women will start in September.

Sports tutor Gary Brown said: "Interest in women's football is really on the increase at the moment and there are plenty of successful women players.

"The centre will help the girls complete sports theory in the morning and train in the afternoon.

"We currently have eight applicants but we're looking for 12 so the team can compete in the British College League."

The college is also looking to build ties with a professional or semi-professional football club. Cambridge Regional College has connections with Cambridge United FC and Huntingdonshire College is hoping to build similar bridges to help the centre.

The girls will visit teams all over the country as well as talking with football scouts.

Nicole Saunders, 16, from Chatteris has been playing football since she was seven and is looking forward to starting in September. She said: "I'm really happy that a course like this is on offer and I can study something I enjoy."

Jade Emery, also 16, from Fenstanton, said: "The centre is one of few in the country and a great opportunity for girl's football. I can't wait to start!"

Mr Brown added: "The course is very practical and gives a great opportunity for the girls to get qualifications and get noticed. We are one of a handful of colleges to do a female course.

"Sadly the girls won't be able to play against the boys as strict FA guidelines state that over the age of 11 they cannot play due to the physical differences.