Lifelong Bluenose Shaun Timmins' dream of becoming a professional for his beloved club today came true as he put pen to paper on a one year deal.

The 18-year-old from Sheldon in Birmingham is over the moon to have signed the contract having been at the Blues' Academy since the age of 16.

Left-back Timmins was a regular for the Academy U-18s side last season and featured in every round of the club's progression to the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup. He has also represented the Republic of Ireland at U-17 and U-18 levels.

Talking exclusively to bcfc.com after joining the club's pro ranks former Lyndon School pupil Timmins said: "Just like all of my family I'm a huge Blues fan so this is a dream come true for me.

"I'm happy that all my hard work during my Academy years has paid off but I also know there's plenty more hard work to come.

"I've always wanted to be a professional footballer and now that I've signed my first contract I've got to keep putting in the dedication and commitment to take it to the next level."