MORE Island youngsters will be able to take part in beach football, following a second £3,500 donation from the Isle of Wight Foundation.

The grant will enable Isle of Wight Beach Soccer to provide two new sets of mobile goals, facilitating more activities for young people and, in particular, developing opportunities for girls to play.

It is the second £3,500 grant awarded to the not-for-profit organisation by the Isle of Wight Foundation, comprising the companies behind Island Roads, which awards grants to organisations tackling social exclusion.

The previous grant, in 2017, was used to buy new senior and junior mobile goals, which helped Isle of Wight Beach Soccer expand its activities both in terms of coaching and hosting events in the community.

Luke Kerr of Isle of Wight Beach Soccer said: “The Isle of Wight Foundation has been a fantastic supporter of Isle of Wight beach soccer, which has enabled us to take the sport ­— with all the benefits it brings ­— to more and more people.

“This year, we held 25 events, accommodating 200 teams.

"With the two new sets of goals, we can now accommodate twice as many teams, and pay particular attention to encouraging girls to participate in our events.

“With these additional goals and our beautiful Island beaches, we can continue to grow and make the Isle of Wight the beach soccer capital of England.”

Denise Scott, grant programme manager at Island Roads, said: “I'm really pleased the foundation has once again been able to support this activity.

"This new equipment will help Isle of Wight Beach Soccer continue to grow, and offer all young people on the Island a healthy and rewarding outdoor activity.”