WITH February half-term fast-approaching, Swindon Town Football in the Community Trust have been preparing for their holiday courses with the help of first-team players.

Captain Darren Ward and his teammates have met children at development centres across Swindon, with Alex Pritchard visiting the disability session at Swindon Academy this week.

The players have assisted with the delivery of coaching sessions as well as sharing their experiences of life in the professional game.

Development centres coordinator Shane Hewlett stressed how important it was for youngsters to see first-team players at sessions.

“The children have loved seeing their idols this week and have enjoyed being coached and mentored by the professional players,” he said.

“It has been really refreshing to have our players wanting to be involved and we feel that this will encourage more young players to take up the game.”

The trust’s February development courses give plenty of chances for children aged 5-15 to get active.

On offer is goalkeeping training, girls only classes and a multi-sport course for children with physical and special educational needs.

For more information on how to book, phone 01793 421303.