It has been hailed as a 'significant step forward.'

And after a new ground sharing agreement was confirmed this week, hopes are high that this will become a 'long standing partnership' between two non league football teams.

Delighted officials from Waveney FC and Lowestoft Town FC announced that Waveney's new U18 team will play all their home fixtures in the Thurlow Nunn Floodlit Youth League - together with the majority of the club's senior side's home fixtures in the Anglian Combination Premier League - at the Amber Dew Events Stadium next season.

Waveney club development officer, Shane Davey, who has worked hard to achieve membership of the Thurlow Nunn Youth League, said: 'This is a significant step forward for Waveney in its development both on and off the pitch. I am enthused by the potential of the collaboration and firmly believe this enhanced relationship with Lowestoft Town will bring many benefits to both clubs.

'This is a new and very exciting venture for the club and one which will allow more youth players in the town the opportunity to continue their football development with Waveney FC.

'I would like to personally thank Gary Keyzor and his board of directors for giving us the opportunity to put in place a development pathway from youth into adult football.'

Waveney chairman Mark Gamble added: 'Our relationship with Lowestoft Town in recent times has gone from strength to strength and this agreement is clear evidence of that.

'Both clubs have a unique and personal standing in the local football community and as such it makes sound sense to work together to ensure we can provide a quality product and environment for players and members alike both on and off the pitch.

'As the club celebrates its 40th anniversary this season, I am looking forward to welcoming new and old supporters to not only support our current first team in action, but also our younger players who will be eager to shine on a wonderful stage and encourage our current players and members to show their support to Lowestoft Town under new manager Jamie Godbold.'

Waveney's first senior side fixture is on August 25 at home to CEYMS with free entry to all games next season. The youth league fixtures have yet to be announced.

Lowestoft Town director Gary Keyzor said: 'The relationship with Waveney is something that I have been trying to achieve ever since being introduced to the club 10 years ago.

'Sadly for various reasons this has not materialised to this level until now.

'I played for the very first Waveney team back in 1978 and this relationship brings lots of added enthusiasm to me and to our club. This is the very start of what is hoped to be a long standing partnership between both clubs, both will have their own identity but there are many ways that we will work together on and off the pitch. It also gives our very own supporters an option when choosing their mid-week and Saturday football fix when our first team are on their travels.'