TEST Valley Borough Council's football partnership with Reading FC is proving a real winner - just ask the youngsters at Hurstbourne Primary School.

Reading development officer Mark Rivers was scouting for new talent when he recently visited the local school to teach the local youngsters a variety of footballing skills.

The Nationwide League club, who are funding the programme with the local council, are also running lunch time and after school clubs and anyone requiring more information should contact Elaine New at Reading FC on 01189 681415.

Swindon Town is another Nationwide League club starting a soccer school for young boys and girls at the new leisure centre in Tidworth where they will be running courses for players of all abilities - and those that shine will be offered a trial at Swindon's Centre of Excellence.

Run by FA qualified coaches, the first course starts today (Friday) and the cost of each session is £2.50. Anyone requiring more details about the courses can contact Jimmy Fraser on 01793 644477.