New sponsors for Southend United's Centre of Excellence

Blues Head of Youth Ricky Duncan was overjoyed as he spoke to the official site: "We are delighted that the University of Essex has agreed to back the Centre of Excellence. Their significant investment in the development of Southend United will enable us to continue to nurture the stars of the future. As we continue to build towards academy status, and the new stadium, this sponsorship agreement signifies a major stepping stone towards that goal."

The centre, which works with kids where ages's range from under 8's to under 16's, was formely sponsored by Safe and Secure.

The University, which has campuses in Colchester, Loughton and Southend, will have their logo on the front of the shirts of all age groups.

The University of Essex's Marketing Manager, Claire Lindsay, said:"The University of Essex is delighted to be able to support Southend United's Centre of Excellence.

And so say all of us.