CERTIFICATES and medals were handed out as youngsters sharpened their football skills over the festive period.

A large number of children aged from five to 15 took part in three fun-packed Worcester City soccer schools held at Bishop Perowne High School.

During the indoor courses, youngsters received a coaching master-class to improve their skills with the focus on heading, passing, shooting and dribbling.

They practised free-kicks and took part in one-on-one exercises, penalty shoot-outs and a world cup tournament.

Each child earned a medal and a certificate at the end of each session and were also given a free ticket to Worcester City's league fixture against Kettering Town at St George's Lane on Saturday.

"We always try and make it fun for the children," said Worcester City community officer Andy Wilkes. "At the same time, they get to learn lots of different technical skills.

"They take part in 'soccer-obics' which is obviously like aerobics, where the children are coached to music.

"It is all to do with rhythm, balance and co-ordination. It's excellent and keeps them fit. All the big Premiership clubs use it."

More Worcester City soccer schools are expected to be held during the half-term school holidays in February.