STUDENTS at University College Worcester have impressed the sports business world with their ideas.

Sports Studies undergraduates were asked to develop and present marketing plans to a range of clubs and leisure groups, as part of a Marketing Module.

They approached leading organisations and attracted the likes of Worcester City FC, Worcester Rugby, Harpers Gyms, Body and Soul gym and Upton Warren Outdoor Pursuits Centre.

Students presented around six business plans to Worcester City FC director Bob Marley alone, including presentations on loyalty scheme initiatives, the development of school links, attracting more girls and ideas for new stadium plans including a male health centre, crche facilities, community use ideas and stadium accessibility.

Director Bob Marley said the club was delighted with the ideas

"All of the presentations were of an extremely high standard, were thorough and thought provoking and we took away ideas from all of these," he said.

Karen Bill, principal lecturer in Development and Innovation at UCW added: "The idea of the partnership scheme was to equip students with the business, research and presentation skills needed in the workforce.

"The response from clubs and the sports and leisure industry has been extremely positive and has encouraged us to run the same initiative next year."