Loddon United’s reserve team will join the Lowestoft & District League next season as part of a shake-up in the structure of the club.

Chairman Dave Matthews said last season was one of the most difficult the club has ever had to face, with more than a dozen games called off because of the unavailability of players.

“It’s a problem right across grass-roots football,” he said.

“Only a few years ago Loddon had three adult teams. But sadly numbers began to decline and the A team had to fold.”

The reserve team had played in the Anglian Combination Division Three but will join the Lowestoft & District League because it will mean less travelling and fewer games.

“We hope a more local set-up will prove more attractive to players and get this club thriving again,” added Matthews, who played for and managed the club between 1999 and 2013.

At the end of the 2015/16 season Loddon United amalgamated with the Loddon Grasshoppers youth teams in the hope of providing a steady flow of young players into the adult teams.

“Hopefully this will provide long-term stability for the club,” said Matthews.

“But it’s not a quick fix, because we face two more years without an Under-16 team.”

Loddon United’s first team will remain in Anglian Combination Division One. The club has provided football for the wider Loddon area for more than 100 years, with everyone involved determined to ensure that continues for many more decades.

If you’re interested in playing for the club, or in managing either the first or the reserve team please get in touch.

The club’s website is www.loddonunited.co.uk, and there’s also Facebook and e-mail info@loddonunited.co.uk

Meanwhile Gorleston Rangers’ 29th annual youth football tournament in association with Specsavers Great Yarmouth will once again be held at Ormiston Venture Academy, Oriel Avenue, Gorleston NR31 7JJ on Saturday and Sunday July 15 and 16.

With nearly 200 teams already entered, early application is encouraged. Applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. There are currently nearly 49 different clubs represented across the age groups.

For more information contact Chris Dunne on 01493 601256 or chris.dunne@homecall.co.uk