A COACHING programme to find Southampton's next James Beattie has kicked off in the city.

Coaches from Saints are running the scheme, which began this week at Butts Road Recreation Ground in Sholing.

The weekly football sessions are open to girls and boys aged between eight and 14 who would like to perfect their footballing skills.

It is being run by coaches from Southampton Football Club aided by the city council's sports development team and local neighbourhood wardens.

Each coaching session coasts £1 and will run from 6pm to 7pm every Monday at the recreation ground. Later in the year, when the days become shorter, there are plans to move the sessions to Saturday mornings.

The football sessions are part of a wide range of activities for children and youngsters that have been organised by Sholing Residents' Association.

STAR TURN: Gary Loveridge puts youngsters through their paces at Sholing. Echo picture by Gordon Agg-Jones. Order no: hl9oo4l4