A JUNIOR hockey club is getting support from an England international player as part of a new scheme to help youngsters develop their skills.

The junior wing of Durham City Hockey Club has been rebranded as Durham Hockey Juniors and is getting extra support from some of Durham University’s performance team, as well as students, some of whom have played at international level.

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Claire Dobison-Lee, the university’s assistant performance hockey coach, said: “It’s a pleasure to be working as part of the new partnership at Durham Hockey Juniors. It’s a club I share many happy memories with. Over the years many of my family members have been members at the club in different capacities.

“It’s a brilliant time to be a part of this thriving and vibrant junior section. We’re working with some great players and some very dedicated volunteer coaches.”

Among the student volunteers are Tess Howard, who recently helped Great Britain to fifth place at the Hockey Champions Trophy in China and Charlotte Childs, who has represented England at under-21 level.

Miss Childs said: “Having the opportunity to be involved in the new and upcoming Durham Hockey Juniors through coaching on Sunday mornings has been such a fantastic experience. I couldn’t recommend getting involved enough.

“It’s been so rewarding seeing the exciting young talent that’s out there and the progress being made by these players as well as being a part of the development of youth hockey.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the junior set up in Durham and looking forward to what more there is to come.”

Club chairman Miles Hudson said: “The university club is far and away the highest achieving in the North-East, and they have some international players in the club. Plus, their professional coaches also have international coaching pedigrees.

“To have some of these players and coaches helping out with our junior hockey programme will inevitably lead the juniors to great things.”

The club, which now has more than 90 members, welcomes children aged between 6 and 16 of all abilities. The cost is £4 per session, £50 per term, or £120 per year.

For more information email junior.hockey@durham.ac.uk.