Mark close to youth World Cup goal

FOOTBALL MAD 12-year-old Mark Davenport will soon realising his dream of playing in the youth World Cup after Sentinel Housing Association stepped in to sponsor him.

Winklebury lad Mark is set to join regional side Hampshire Elite for the 1500-team Gothia World Youth Cup taking place in Sweden next month, and Sentinel is paying £250 towards the cost of the trip.

The defender plays for Fort Hill Community School and Winklebury Wizards Youth FC, but secured a place with Hampshire Elite after a trial.

His mum Shirley Davenport said: "Mark’s very excited about the prospect, but we’ve been struggling to raise the funds so he can play. We’re very grateful to Sentinel for getting the ball rolling, and hope we can secure the remaining money before he’s due to go on July 13."

Sentinel staff have been impressed with the quality of talent in Winklebury, especially after being trounced 5-0 in a recent 5 a side competition against 10-15 year olds from the Green Hut Youth Club.

Sentinel spokesman Steve Murphy added: "We invest a lot of time and energy in working with young people in this area, so we’re delighted to support Mark’s quest to put Winklebury on the map."