A FOOTBALL coaching scheme launched last year received a visit from an MP.

Pupils at Haughton Community School, in Darlington’s Education Village, have received professional coaching every week since January last year. Pupils in years eight to 11, who attend the school’s homework club, were invited to join the Football and Schools Together scheme, which is supported by the Football Foundation and Manchester Metropolitan University.

Darlington MP Alan Milburn was at the coaching session yesterday.

He said: “I was delighted to visit the very innovative project, which offers both education and sport. It was so encouraging to see the youngsters enjoying sporting activity and learning key academic skills at the same time. I want to congratulate the foundation and university for their work.”

The sessions are run in conjunction with Darlington Football Club.