A COMMUNITY football coaching scheme has won national recognition for its high standards.

The Middlesbrough Football Community Project (MFCP) has been awarded a Football Association Charter Standard mark for its holiday courses, in recognition of the standard of the coaching and support provided to youngsters.

To celebrate the project's achievements, MFCP coaches Sarah Ward and Andy Cook were presented with a plaque and banner from Boro boss Steve McClaren before kick-off at the Premiership match against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

Mr McClaren said: "The community project is promoting a positive and supportive profile within local communities, and it has the full endorsement of the football club."

Hundreds of children from across the region will attend MFCP courses during the Spring Bank Holiday week, from May 31 to June 3.

There are still places left for the courses taking place in Northallerton, Stokesley, Yarm, Billingham, Stockton, Coulby Newham, Redcar, Eston and Guisborough.

They are open to all five to 14-year-olds, with special classes for five to seven-year-olds and three to five-year-olds. Prices range from £26 for a three-day event to £10 for a one-day course.

For further information or a booking form, call (01642) 282128.