THE South Bucks Youth League, sponsored once again this season by our sister paper, the Bucks Free Press, swings into action on Sunday with games in three divisions.

The competition provides an invaluable link between the more junior youth leagues which often finish at under 16 level, and the long and often difficult stride into senior football. Some of the more talented boys in the South Bucks Youth League have been given opportunities in Ryman League football such as Holmer Green's Stephen Miles at Chesham United and Barry Brosnan of Chalfont St Peter, so it is a fertile ground for future talent.

The opening fixtures in Division One feature Hedsor Social Club against Loudwater, Chalfont Saints Colts at home to Burnham Wildcats and Chalfont St Peter away to Tring Corinthians Youth.

As well as High Wycombe, Aylesbury also provides its share of sides and Aylesbury United Youth take on local rivals Bedgrove Athletic.

In Division Two, Chesham United Youth are at home to Aylesbury Saints Youth, while Prestwood Colts take on Beacons Bottom. Burnham Tigers are at home to Chinnor Youth to complete the line-up.

Also in the same division, Golden Eagles will hope to get their season off to a flying start at home to Tring Corinthians Colts and Chalfont Wasps Youth will have home advantage against Prestwood Youth.

Turning to Division Three, Towersey Boys play at home to Chesham Rangers, Missenden FC receive visiting Chalfont Wasps Colts, while Naphill entertain Chalfont Saints Athletic and Chinnor Rangers play host to the travelling Wendover side.

The following Sunday also sees a full league programme with the League Cup starting on September 22.

Last season, Holmer Green dominated events in the league and cup, taking the Division One title after quite a battle against Thame. They also picked up the League Cup with a 4-1 win against a determined Cookham Dean side in the final.