Vernon Coaker MP joined guests from Rushcliffe Borough Council, Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and the Trent Bridge Community Trust to celebrate the launch of a pioneering scheme to give direction to young people in Cotgrave.

The Positive Futures project, funded by the Home Office and a £175,000 grant from the Football Foundation, will see up to 100 11-19 year olds benefit from multi-sport coaching and encouragement to pursue careers in sport.

It is the first project to be managed by the Trent Bridge Community Sports Trust, the charitable arm of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, and the first Positive Futures scheme to be led by a County Cricket Club.

Vernon Coaker, Minister of State for Policing, Secuirty and Crime, said: “Schemes like Positive Futures don’t just happen and a lot of hard work has gone in to getting this off the ground. The way in which all of the partners have got together is a great tribute to everybody involved.

“We have to enforce the law but enforcement isn’t the only answer and it is important that we get behind schemes that help to prevent young people from becoming problems for the police.

“The message to the young people of Cotgrave is that we’re trying to give you the Positive Future that you deserve.”

Neil Clarke, Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council, said: “This scheme will help young people to take positive steps away from crime and towards a future of confidence and achievement.

“Our partnership with the cricket club has played a pivotal role in making sure that Rushcliffe plays host to great sport and all parties will work together to make Rushcliffe home to great young people.”

Derek Brewer, Chief Executive of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, said: “We are truly delighted to be working with Rushcliffe Borough Council to deliver this scheme and grateful to the Football Foundation for the tremendous financial support that they have given.”

The funding will allow the scheme to run for an initial three-year term.