FOOTBALL-loving scouts endured the bitter cold to gain some valuable work experience.

More than 100 youngsters with Colchester North District Scouts seized the chance to enjoy a kick-about on the astro turf at Colchester United’s Weston Homes Community Stadium ahead of the match against Yeovil Town.

The U’s celebrated their links with the scouts by allowing several youngsters to get hands on with day-to-day jobs at the stadium.

Although the result did not go their way, as the U’s slumped to a a 1-0 defeat, the youngsters endured freezing conditions to cheer the team on from the stands.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

Bill Miller, training advisor for the Scouts, said: “Someone got the chance to lay out the kit before the game, someone acted as a steward and one got the opportunity to write a match report after interviewing a player.

“I am a match day steward myself so we have good links with the club.

“The day was just absolutely brilliant. The club is so fantastic and accommodating.”