A PADIHAM school is hoping to produce the footballing stars of the future by starting up a soccer school.

Shuttleworth College is launching the school under the guidance of a former professional footballer Chris Turner.

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Former Burnley and Accrington Stanley footballer, Chris, who is Year Seven Pastoral Manager at the college, will be giving his heading up the school.

The 24-year-old, who made his Football League debut at Accrington Stanley aged 17, says he’s keen to pass on his skills to the future generations.

The soccer school teaches students from Shuttleworth College and feeder schools including Padiham Green, Padiham Primary, Ightenhill, St Leonards, Whittlefield and Lowerhouse Junior School.

So far he has organised a series of structured training nights for primary school pupils with a tournament to complete the course.

Chris said: “We are initially aiming the programme at Years Five and Six from all the local schools.

“It’s not just about football skills and training, it’s also about attitude and ambition and I want to pass on what I have learned to pupils.

“I have my coaching badges and still keep in touch with footballers such as Alex Cisak, Burnley’s ‘keeper who is on loan at Leyton Orient, and Burnley defender Kevin Long who I played at Stanley with.

“I want to use my knowledge and skills but I also perhaps did a few things wrong so I am also keen to make sure they learn from my mistakes.

“We will also have guest coaches to pass on their tips as well so we can bring the best out of what could be our footballing or coaching stars of the future.”

Councillor Jonathan Barker, who represents Hapton with Park said: “This is good news for for all children involved, they will have the opportunity to learn new skills which will stay with them for years to come. “ Training sessions will be held at the school from 4-5.15pm every Tuesday on March 10, 17 and 24. They will re-start after the Easter holidays on April 7, 14 and 21.

To find out more, schools or individuals can contact 01282 682300 or email cturner@shuttleworth.lancs.sch.uk.