THE hunt is on to find cheerleaders to help warm up the crowd ahead of Burnley Football Club's matches next season.

Girls could find themselves dancing with their pom-poms at Turf Moor before a crowd waiting to watching the exploits of the Clarets

Anybody aged between five to 20 can become involved in the programme, which will see cheerleaders performing during all home games.

The cheerleading initiative is part of Burnley's Community Programme, designed to encourage youngsters to get involved in sporting activities.

Sports Minister Richard Caborn visited Turf Moor on Monday to look at the pioneering initiative.

He was so impressed with what was on offer at the club that he called on other football clubs across the country to follow in Burnley's footsteps.

The club is looking to recruit 50 girls, but so far has signed up only 30 people to join the new team.

Michelle Williamson, cheerleading coach, said they had 20 uniforms ready and waiting for people who want to get involved.

She said: "It's going to be a lot of fun. It's a new idea which we aim to make a success of.

"We already have quite a lot of young people who are involved but would like more older people to join in.

"There are quite a lot of perks involved with cheerleading. Girls get to stand with players in the tunnel, they get to perform in front of thousands of people and they get to watch the match for free.

"If anybody wants to find out more about the sessions they should contact me or anybody at the club."

Sessions are £3 per week, and meet Monday's, Thursday's Friday's and Saturday's.

Anybody interested should contact Michelle on 01282 710190.