FOOTBALL coaches from across the country are coming to the town to learn how to teach children about the beautiful game -- and keep them away from the evils of drugs.

Managers who run teams for youngsters aged between six and 18 will visit the Bolton Lads' and Girls' Club for the event next month which is organised by the Lancashire Football Association.

In the morning, the coaches will learn the best way to teach children the necessary soccer skills and in the afternoon, staff from the Lads and Girl's Club's Mentoring Programme will teach the guests how to speak to young people about the dangers of drugs and drink.

The Mentoring Programme has been running for around seven years. The Lancashire FA was keen to involve it in its Charter Standard programme, which aims to improve the quality of young footballers in England. Vicky Douglas, Bolton Lads and Girls Club Recruitment and training Coordinator, said: "We try to paint a realistic picture of why young people abuse these substances. While drugs are always a key issue, alcohol is just as dangerous but because it's socially acceptable to drink it tends to get swept under the carpet."

The programme's aim is to properly educate children and parents to the realities of drugs. Vicky said: "We're saying this is what they look like, this is what they're called, this is how much they cost - and this is what they do to you."

The Charter Standard aims to have all coaches fully qualified to teach football and give first aid. John Bullen, press officer for the Lancashire FA, said: "The scheme is about football training and aims to have all coaches qualified in junior coaching and first aid. It will also ensure all coaches are vetted with regards to the Child Protection Act, so parents can feel safe about letting their kids join."

The Charter Standard Junior Managers/Coaches Development Day takes place at the Bolton Lads' and Girls' Club, Bark Street, on Sunday, December 1.