Officers and children play ball

Young people in Great Wyrley are being invited to step on to the field and pull on their boots with local community officers.

Police Community Support Officers Andy Poxon and Rhys Rockley are spearheading a scheme to provide youngsters a safe place to socialise and learn discipline in sport.

Working in partnership with South Staffordshire Youth Service, the group has set up two football training sessions.

The sessions, held at Moat Hall Primary School, will be up and running on Tuesday 26 and Thursday 28 May at 10am-1pm.

They will be free of charge but those signing up are asked to bring suitable boots or trainers to the sessions.

Inspector Mark Jones, commander of Watling Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: "It is hoped this venture will provide the young people of Great Wyrley a safe environment to meet and socialise, as well as a good opportunity for positive interaction between the police and the young people in the area.

"Exercise of any type is important for young people to improve their overall health. Football training is both beneficial as a recreational activity as well as offering a way of disciplining themselves."

Youngsters interested should call PCSO Rockley or PCSO Poxon on 0300 123 4455.