A FOOTBALLER says an activity programme run by his club’s charity arm is top of the league.

Sunderland defender Michael Turner was at the Sunderland City Council-run Bunny Hill Children’s Centre, Hylton Lane, Sunderland, yesterday (Feb3) for the launch of the foundation’s Family Learning Through Football programme.

The programme includes Little Dribblers, a physical activity session for two to five-year-olds.

The programme, which was Highly Commended at 2010's national Sport Industry Awards, works with families to improve relationships, confidence and self-esteem while developing new skills.

Mr Turner said: "It's great to see SAFC Foundation working together with Sunderland City Council to improve lives for families in the region.

"Programmes like Little Dribblers and Family Learning through Football are a great way to engage the community and help them develop all kinds of skills in a fun and positive environment. I'm proud to be able to attend and lend my support to it."

Councillor Pat Smith, Sunderland City Council Portfolio Holder for Children and Learning, said: "We are extremely proud of our partnership working in Sunderland and this excellent collaboration has once again shown the benefits for the community of schemes such as this.’’