LEE Connor says he is excited at Basildon United’s prospects after the team joined the Eastern Junior Alliance.

The Bees will have an Under-18 team in the division next year, playing against the likes of Grays Athletic, Canvey Island and Concord Rangers.

And chairman Connor says he is excited to get underway, although was concerned it would not go through at one point.

“It has been a bit of a nightmare,” he said. “We applied in February as we wanted Under-18s, 16s, 14s and 13s teams in the EJA.

“Some paperwork went missing and we weren’t in the application process initially. A lot of the members clubs submitted their applications late but thankfully a space became available.

“It is huge for the club. We want this to be a bridge to the first team.”

Basildon have developed links with Woodlands School, in Basildon, and are working closely with Luke Hirst, a UEFA B coach.

Connor says the Bees have first refusal on use of the school’s grounds.

And he is pleased at the progress made in terms of the youth development.

“I have links with Woodlands School and we have a good partnership with them,” he said.

“Luke works with the footballers at the school five days a week and many of the school’s players will make up the Under-18s.

“With there only being one EJA spot available I am glad we have managed to get this done.”

Basildon have also been busy in the transfer market, signing Lewis Moore, Matt Brinklow and Billy Holmes.