THE next generation of football referees could be trained in Bolton, thanks to a new project between schools and the town’s university.

Schools with specialist sports college status are working with the University of Bolton to open a sports academy.

The aim is to give teenagers the opportunity of becoming qualified coaches and referees, or to train in other sports careers.

Forty youngsters will be selected to be trained to qualify for a position of their choice.

The Government is putting up the cash for the scheme and it wants to establish a sports academy in every local authority across the country, with specialist sports schools such as St Joseph’s RC High in Horwich, taking the lead.

Bolton’s sports academy will open at the university campus next month.

Sports community development manager Scott Warrington, who is based at St Joseph’s RC, said: “This is a very exciting development for young people.

“The academy in Bolton will be different to those being set up elsewhere in the country, as we are linking schools, colleges, the university and sports clubs around the town.

“The academy will be geared to what young people want. If they want to be trained in a specific role, the academy will meet that need.

“This is a great opportunity for those who want to become professionals or community volunteers.”

Application packs have been sent to schools and colleges. Twenty youngsters aged from 14 to 16 and another 20 aged from 16 to 19 will be chosen.

Bolton-based Premiership football referee Mark Halsey has given his backing to the scheme.

He said: “This academy will be good for young people and the game.

“There is a shortage of referees in the country and this academy will be of benefit to football at all levels.

He added: “It is something that I would have liked to have had the opportunity to do.”

The academy will be officially launched at the university on February 16.

Organisers are hoping to invite Olympian athletes to speak to school and college students.

schaudhari@theboltonnews.co.uk