Witham Town chairman Tony Last has defended the club’s decision to uproot their under-18 side from the Ridgeons Youth League.

Town are making changes to their set-up, with the Spa Road outfit set to play their reserve games in the Capital Football League from next season.

Witham’s second string currently ply their trade in the Ridgeons Reserve League.

However, Town feel the Capital Football League will offer a better standard of football.

And from next season, the club’s under-18 team will play their football in the Ridgeons Reserve League.

Last said: “It was a unnanimous committee decision.

“We are moving our under-18 team into the Ridgeons Reserve League and we will have a reserve team in the Capital League.

“We’re not changing our idea on youth. It’s to give them a better standard of football to play in.

“It’s better that we move them somewhere where they can play more games.

“We have an Academy and over time, we’re looking to bring young players through into the first team.”

Witham entertain promotion-chasing Aveley on Saturday, in Ryman League division one north.

They are also at home on Tuesday night, when Wingate and Finchley visit Spa Road.

Witham are desperate for points, as they battle to move up the Ryman League division one north table.

l Football legend Jimmy Greaves is set to appear at Witham Town in May.

Greaves will entertain an audience at the Spicer McColl Stadium, Spa Road, where he will go back down memory lane and talk about his magnificent career.

The show takes place on May 1 and tickets are limited.

They are priced at £20 and are available by phoning Witham Town FC on 01376 511198.