WANNABE Terry Venables have been signing up for lessons.

More than 20 residents from the Whinney Banks area of Middlesbrough took part in a training course at the weekend with the goal of qualifying as junior football team managers.

Their introductory lesson focused on teaching management and coaching skills.

It also included emergency first aid training, child protection issues, and knowledge of injuries caused by over-training, and exercising in the wrong manner.

Jim Wattis, sports development officer for Middlesbrough Borough Council, said: "The course is the first rung on the coaching ladder.

"Anyone who qualifies can carry out safe coaching, with the emphasis on enjoyment rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude.''

The course was organised by council officials, and funded by the Government's New Deal for Communities scheme