BIBS, boots and balls are heading to an orphanage in the Democratic Republic of Congo after a Fenland football team donated all their spare kit.

The gift is part of March-based Estover Park Youth FC’s project to support African charity the Menelik Partnership.

Team strips, training cones and a set of goals will also be shipped out to Kinshasa, the country’s capital city.

Estover Park Under-14s Girls team have also planned a series of fundraising drives including bag packs and community events.

Manager Rob Mitchell said: “This partnership is an excellent opportunity to show the young people in our football club that there is more than just playing the sport.

“The club’s attitude to the charity work has been outstanding and many players have given up hours of their time to ensure the launch of this partnership is a success.”

It is hoped that the partnership, established through the voluntary work of Mr Mitchell and Pauline Gardner, will continue for many years.

Players will send pictures and letters to the African orphanage and Internet conversations via webcam are also being planned.

Fran Plitsch, captain of the under-14s girls, said: “It’s great to think that in a few months children in the Congo will be playing in our club kits and have the opportunity to enjoy the game as much as we do.

“We hope we can see photos from the orphanage of the matches they play!”

For more information on the Menelik Partnership, visit: www.menelikpartnership.org