Ekco Whitecaps' managers took time out from their pre-season preparations to help youngsters at a Leigh special school.

The chiefs held a two-hour soccer session at St Christopher's Evening Centre in Mountdale Avenue to boost the skills of children up to the age of 14.

About a dozen young people joined the managers and members of the Whitecaps' under-16 side for the mix of friendly matches and skills practice.

"It was a really successful evening," said Ekco secretary Malcolm Cooper. "We hope to make it a regular occurrence every few weeks."

The club has had a long relationship with the school because the Whitecap's mini soccer team play their home games on the school field.

St Christopher's headteacher Tom Wilson told the Ekco contingent that sport is set to be boosted at the school thanks to the building of a new sports hall.

And residential facilities to offer greater opportunities for the pupils and other special needs youngsters from the Southend area are also being prepared.

Ekco Whitecaps have teams in the Southend and District junior football league and the South East Essex primary mini soccer league.

Anyone aged between six and 15 interested in joining the club, regardless of their footballing ability, should contact Mr Cooper on 01702 433382.

The cap fits - chiefs from Ekco with children from St Christopher's

Picture: MALCOLM STOCKWELL

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