THEY ARE barely out of nappies but they are already being taught to dribble a ball like football heroes David Beckham and James Beattie.

Eastleigh has scored a first by launching Britain's first Football Tots Club.

From the tender age of two the teeny players are being groomed for what could be soccer stardom in pioneering football sessions held at the Kickers Indoor Sports Limited complex on the Barton Park Industrial Estate.

Little Louis Holt from Hedge End, was proud as punch as he netted from the penalty spot watched by coach and former Peterborough professional footballer Paul Darke.

Watching her three-year-old being put through his soccer paces was his mum Kerry Holt.

Kerry, 33, said: "This is the only place where children this young can come and learn to play football.

"Louis has really got into it and has scored a goal. He thinks he is James Beattie and he even has his hair cut like him."

Two-year-old Harry Hall from Eastleigh is so hooked on soccer that after the Football Tots Club he goes home and practises more football in the back garden.

His mum, Amelia Hall, 30, said: "He absolutely loves it."

Louis and Harry were among more than 20 boys and girls, aged two to five, taking part in an hour-long Friday Football Tots Club session. The club also meets on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10-11am. Kickers' managing director Julian Allen said the club had taken off in a big way and it was the first of its type in the country.

"No one else does this. We are teaching them balance and co-ordination and how to run properly," he said.

With these abilities they can concentrate on skill and technique when it comes to competitive football.

Under the expert eye of FA qualified football coaches the tots are helped to develop speed, agility and quickness.

Julian said these were skills not only needed for future David Beckhams but for those who wanted to become stars of the athletics track and dancing world.

Julian is planning to invite representatives from St Mary's to see how the Football Tots Club could help to produce future Saints stars.

Every youngster taking part gets a drink and biscuit. With those well-honed soccer skills they could one day be tucking into champagne and caviar.

For further information about the club ring 023 8064 3232.