UNEMPLOYED people will have the opportunity to kick off a new career, thanks to a premier league football club.

Middlesbrough FC are offering free football sessions to anyone aged over 29 who is not in education, employment or training.

The MFC Foundation, the charitable arm of the club, hope the opportunity will provide inspiration for those hoping to change the direction of their life.

Careers advice will also be available from dedicated mentors for those taking part in the sessions.

Les Curvis, who is leading the project, said he hopes it will encourage people to take the first step in turning their lives around.

He said: “We’re hoping this will give people the opportunity to take the first step in getting out and about, rather than feeling lost.

“They can play football with me and then can be passed to a navigator, who will give them a helping hand with careers advice.”

Sessions will be held from noon until 1pm on Mondays at the Eastbourne Sports Complex in Darlington and on Tuesdays at the Herlingshaw Centre in Eston, Middlesbrough.

On Monday, January 30, taster sessions will be held at the MUGA in Redhall, Darlington from 2pm until 3pm and 3.15pm until 4.15pm.

For more information, call 01642 454816 or visit mfcfoundation.co.uk.