COLCHESTER United general manager Tim Waddington said today's Open Day at the JobServe Community Stadium was one of the best yet.

Hundreds flocked to the venue for the popular annual event, where U's head coach John McGreal and his first-team squad were all in attendance.

Colchester's players took part in a training session on the main pitch and also had their pre-season photoshoot, where the club's brand new home and away kits were unveiled.

McGreal also joined club chairman Robbie Cowling and director of football Tony Humes for a question and answer session and there were also plenty of activities on offer, on what was a successful day for the club.

Waddington told the Gazette: "I think it gets stronger every year.

"It feels like this one was the busiest it's ever been, since we've been doing it.

"It's the launch of our season and the launch of a new kit and all the new products we sell.

"It's our springboard into the new season and this year in particular there's been a great atmosphere and a great mix of people and families and people young and old."

There were plenty of young fans sporting Colchester colours at the event and Waddington was encouraged by what he saw.

He added: "We know that we have a challenge to be the number one club for a lot of young people.

"But actually now, if you look at how many young kids were wearing the home or away shirts today, we're winning a little bit on that.

"It's going to be hard yards all the way but I think we are getting our shirt on the backs of the kids in our town."