Hundreds of local children enjoy football roadshows

More than 350 children took part in Exeter City’s Football in the Community roadshows during the half term holiday, making the most of the dry - if cold - weather to learn new skills and make friends.

Events were held in Exeter, Exmouth, Sidmouth, Crediton, Tiverton, Honiton, Feniton, Okehampton and Barnstaple for boys and girls aged between five and 14, while there were also special courses for three to six year olds and a disability holiday camp.

Children were also introduced to futsal - a fast-paced form of indoor football with five players per side - through a special event at the University of Exeter’s Sports Hall for them to explore the game credited by players such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as important in the development of their careers.

“The weather was fantastic for us this half term,” says Scott Walker, sports development officer for the Football in the Community charity. “Although children do need a bit of down time during the breaks from school, they also need plenty of physical activity. They have all really enjoyed the events and gone home smiling and, thanks to it being dry, not too muddy.

“There’s no pressure on any of them to be fantastic footballers - anyone can come along and it’s actually a really good opportunity for teamwork and, most importantly, to have fun - the events are as enjoyable for us as for the children.”

The team are now preparing for the Easter holiday roadshows, which will run from Tuesday 2 April to Friday 12 April and more details will be announced soon.