Lochore Welfare has announced the development of its youth structure.

The East of Scotland League club, based at Central Park, is welcoming the addition of two new youth teams, Lochore Welfare JFC 2015s and Lochore Welfare JFC 2016s.

This marks a step in the development of youth football in the Benarty area, something that has been absent at the club since its transition to the senior ranks four years ago.

James Adam, the team's manager said: "It is fantastic news to finally be able to announce the creation of youth teams linked to Lochore Welfare.

"The news is great for our community and will provide excellent opportunities for youngsters.

"I think it is a fantastic step in the right direction for the club to have on board two youth teams playing under the Lochore Welfare banner.

"We have seen the success that other teams in the East of Scotland League have had by providing a pathway for youngsters, and I hope that this is the start of something special for our club.

"We need local interest across all ages and to be able to get these teams on board can only be a good thing."

The club's initiative follows the successful model of other local clubs, such as Kelty Hearts, Hill of Beath Hawthorn, Dundonald Bluebell, Crossgates Primrose, and Lochgelly Albert.

These clubs have established youth structures that have helped to provide players for their first teams.

Kelty Hearts' development programme has been particularly successful, creating a system that has fed young players through to under 20 level, with many becoming first teamers as Hearts won the Lowland League and gained entry to the Scottish League.

Hill of Beath Hawthorn has developed a side over the past decade that is now challenging for the East of Scotland Premier League title, while Dundonald Bluebell and Crossgates Primrose have also put in place structures that see their Under 20 sides providing talent to back-up their first teams.

Lochgelly Albert have in the last three years formed a youth structure that is helping them put together a team currently top of the East of Scotland Third Division.