A Colchester girls' football team that reached a cup final in its first-ever league season is preparing for their new campaign with continued support from Hopkins Homes.

The housebuilder has sponsored Colchester City Ladies FC's Under 8 girls' team, helping provide essential equipment including footballs, bibs, cones and branded training tops as the young squad builds on an impressive debut season.

The sponsorship reflects Hopkins Homes' commitment to supporting communities across north Colchester, where work is due to begin this summer on its Willow Grove development in Great Horkesley.

The Under 8 side was formed ahead of last season and quickly established itself thanks to the commitment of its young players, coaches and volunteers. After an impressive first league campaign that culminated in a place in the cup final, the team is now looking forward to the season ahead.

Colchester City Ladies FC is an FA-accredited grassroots club that provides girls with a welcoming environment to make friends, develop their football skills and build confidence through sport.

Aaron Harris, Vice Chairman of Colchester City Ladies FC, said:

"We're incredibly grateful to Hopkins Homes for supporting our Under 8 girls' team. Their sponsorship helped us establish the team ahead of joining the league by providing essential equipment, including high-quality training tops featuring the Hopkins Homes logo for every player.

"Grassroots football relies heavily on the support of local businesses, and partnerships like this make a genuine difference. The girls have worn their training tops with pride throughout the season, which culminated in reaching the cup final in our first league campaign.

"It's fantastic to see Hopkins Homes investing in the local community and helping to create opportunities for more young girls to get involved in football."

As work gets underway at Willow Grove in Great Horkesley, Hopkins Homes is continuing to invest in the communities where it builds.  The development will deliver a range of energy-efficient homes alongside public open space, a community allotment and a provision for a new Scout and Girl Guide hut, creating lasting benefits for both new and existing residents.

Ben Fewsdale, Regional Managing Director for untypical's Anglia Region, which includes Hopkins Homes said:  "We're thrilled to support Colchester City Ladies FC and help this fantastic Under 8 team build on such a successful first season.

"Grassroots clubs are at the heart of local communities, and we're delighted to support one that is creating more opportunities for young girls across Colchester."

The housebuilder recently celebrated four NHBC Pride in the Job Awards, recognising excellence in delivering high-quality new homes.  To find out more or register your interest in Willow Grove, click here.