A GROUP of dads and their children were recently given the chance to try out their football skills with professionals.

The fathers took part in the Dads Aloud event, which was organised by Roseann Szomoru, full service schooling co-ordinator for The Hermitage, Bullion Lane Primary and Newker Primary schools in Chester-le-Street and Sure Start Chester-le-Street.

Representatives from Newcastle United's Football in the Community scheme led the sessions at The Hermitage school and children as young as two-years-old had a go at playing football, before their fathers were given the chance to join in.

School nurses and health visitors also attended, offering a health MoT and giving information to children and their fathers about eating healthily.