Complete Commercial Finance's two former pupils of KES Academy sponsor King’s Lynn Town FC U19 squad

Karl Lanham and Michael Moore, from Complete Commercial Finance in Lynn, are two former pupils of KES Academy who have sponsored King’s Lynn Town’s U19 squad.

Alex Cross, academy director, said: “We’re really pleased to be working closely with Complete Commercial Finance as we embark on an exciting future at King’s Lynn Town FC Academy.

“To have two former KES students supporting the programme shows the strength of the school who are a vital part of our plans going forwards.

“After reviewing the current Academy set-up, we have been able to put together a clear footballing pathway that will feature opportunities for players from under-8s through to a newly formed U23s.

“We will be holding recruitment events before the end of the season with further information on dates to be announced in due course for all our teams.”

Michael Moore, director at CCF, said: “As a local King’s Lynn business and former KES pupils ourselves, both Karl and myself are enormously proud and delighted to sponsor the initiative between the school and King’s Lynn Town Football Club to support young sporting talent in our community.

“We are both passionate football fans and, having played for the school ourselves, this association is particularly significant for us. We wish the players every success for the rest of the season and look forward to seeing their talent progress with the support of KLTFC.”

KES principal Sarah Hartshorn added: “One of the wonderful things about King Edward VII Academy is the continued support is gets from its alumni. The Old Lennensians are a constant source of encouragement.

“They love the school and are always looking at ways they can give back.

“We are so very grateful for ex-students Michael Moore and Karl Lanham for providing the U19s’ football kit for the Academy. KES is not just about the children and staff within it but about how it works with the local community.”

n Alex Cross has been appointed as academy director and Alex Cook as academy manager to King’s Lynn Town FC. The UEFA licensed coaches, who both have experience working in EFL Academies and education programmes, have been at the helm of the Academy since the start of December.

After a full review of the current set-up, the duo and club owner Stephen Cleeve have put together a clear footballing pathway that will feature opportunities for players from Under-8s through to a newly formed Under-23s.

Cross said: “Really pleased to have joined the club on a permanent basis. There are significant amounts of potential here and we have a clear vision on creating the best possible pathway for all our players.

“We have made big strides in a short space of time, assisted by the fantastic people that are involved in the club’s Academy. The development of opportunities to players at every age group is vital for the club’s quest to continue producing professional footballers.”

Cook, who is combining his role with managing the Ladies’ team, added on joining the Linnets: “Since joining I have seen how much potential the club has to grow and I am really excited to see where we can take it.

“The levels of commitment shown from the players and members of staff has really helped with the transitional period.

“Player progression and development is at the forefront of our minds; we will strive to make sure we create the best environment for that to succeed.”

The Academy also welcomes Natalie Halliday who has been appointed as academy lead physiotherapist, and Dale Stokes who will be combining his football development officer role with the position of head of academy recruitment.