FOOTBALL programmes run by the Chelsea FC Foundation will entertain children during half term at Dorset holiday parks.
Parkdean Resorts has teamed up with the foundation to bring football programmes to youngsters at holiday parks Warmwell, near Crossways, and Sandford, in Poole.
The half term holiday sessions, led by FA qualified coaches, will provide training on several core footballing skills and look to build on the success of England in the Euros in the summer, which brought football to the forefront of everyone's attention.
Park bosses have introduced the half term activities following the success of a series of 'soccer schools' which took place at ten of its parks during the summer - including Warmwell and Sanford - entertaining children aged between five and 13. They proved a hit with holidaymakers, with guests enjoying the high level of coaching and engaging sessions.
David Morrison, retail director at Parkdean Resorts, said: "The soccer schools were a massive hit with kids of all ages in the summer when the country was gripped by football fever amid the Euros, and it was fantastic to provide our younger holidaymakers with such varied and enjoyable exercise during their stay with us.
"Soccer schools delivered by Chelsea FC Foundation forms an important part of an ever-increasing range of activities that guests can enjoy at our parks, and the opportunity for children to experience fun and engaging coaching will be one of many cherished memories that families create at our parks."
The soccer schools programme will expand to 15 parks in 2022 and to 20 parks the following year.
Head of Chelsea FC Foundation Simon Taylor said: "We can't wait to welcome even more children back to participate in and enjoy our soccer schools. It was great to see so many children getting involved over the summer having fun, picking up new skills, and enjoying their time away."
The soccer schools initiative follows an investment of £70m into accommodation and activities at Parkdean Resort's 67 parks this year, which new activities, including high ropes courses, outdoor climbing walls, virtual reality gaming areas, hover boards and bungee trampolines.
For more information on the soccer schools and to sign up, visit the Parkdean Resorts website.
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