LAST week I concentrated on the depressing weather and had quite a few responses from people in the game, providing positive feedback on ways to improve the situation for clubs and teams.

Today I want to have a little look into the future which hopefully will give you an insight into the passion and commitment of people in the game to make the world a better place.

Last week I was in Wales and had the pleasure of meeting up with goalkeeping legend Neville Southall who is looking to expand his development centres into the Bolton area.

Neville is obviously passionate about development over winning side of the game, and will no doubt bring great benefit to the football landscape in this area. I will keep you posted on developments.

On February 22 and 23 the FA is hosting a league conference at St Georges Park where key individuals around the country will be attending a number of themed workshops with the aim of making the game better for all. On February 18 the Lancashire FA is hosting a meeting between the BBDFL and the Lancashire Amateur League to look how we can help our teams in the transition from U18s football into the adult game.

Retention and growth are two of our main objectives in the game.

Bolton Wanderers Community Trust and Tonge Juniors are working with the BBDFL to develop futsal at St Catherines’ Academy.

As for facilities the Horwich St Marys’ development will be commencing soon, Lostock Sports Club is underway, Hulton Lane is moving forward and Ladybridge High School has achieved planning permission for a new multi-use-games-area.

Finally we are pleased to announce that all our cup finals will take place May 17 and 18 in partnership with Bolton Wanderers Football Club.

We want to thank Bolton Wanderers for there continued support.

All grassroots sports participants can be confident that the future is bright and their are many good peopke working hard to ensure that remains the case.