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Blackpool FC youngster makes move to club that helped kick start rise for now-Charlton Athletic man James Butterworth has joined Bamber Bridge on loan from Blackpool. Blackpool youngster James Butterworth has headed out on loan to non-league to pick up some first-team experience. The forward, who was prolific for the Seasiders’ youth ranks last term, will link up with Bamber Bridge in a deal until January. In total, 31 goals came Butterworth’s way for the U18s throughout the 2025/26 campaign, with one coming in a 2-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers in the LFA Professional Youth Cup final at Leyland. This followed his senior debut away to Tranmere Rovers in the EFL Trophy last November - and the signing of his first professional deal back in February. Bamber Bridge has been a club well utilised by Blackpool in the past, with Oluchi Nwankwo being the most recent youngster to get game time at Irongate. Subscribe now for HALF PRICE and catch every minute of our Seasiders coverage this season - from pre-season to the final whistle. Click here Rob Apter is probably the most notable player to be sent out to the Brig. The winger started his rise through the leagues under ex-Seasiders midfielder Jamie Milligan, before further loan spells with Chester, Scunthorpe United and Tranmere Rovers. The 23-year-old eventually enjoyed a breakthrough year under Steve Bruce during the 2024/25 campaign, before being sold last summer to Charlton Athletic - where he's yet to find his feet 12 months in.