Pat Jennings in Margate today (sunday)

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Isle residents who are not yet sick of the World Cup can indulge in even more football fun in Margate on Sunday (Jul 4).

 

Football fever will be in full flow for youngsters and their families at the McDonald’s Football Open Day.

 

It is one of many free community football days taking place around the country this summer.

 

Organised by McDonald’s franchisee Paul Crocker and Thanet Colts FC, the open day offers families throughout Kent the once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet goalkeeping legend Pat Jennings.

 

He will be on hand from 12pm to 2pm, to watch youngsters demonstrate their skills and to share his insights and some of the tips and tricks acquired through his many years in the game.

 

The event, which is free of charge, forms part of the McDonald’s Community partnership with the FA and aims to inspire youngsters to give the game a go and sharpen their skills through a series of coaching sessions.

 

There will be mini-tournaments as well as activities designed to help develop dribbling, aerial ability and shooting accuracy.

 

Families and friends will also be encouraged to join in the fun by being invited to try their hand at coaching or even sign up as a club volunteer.

 

The open day will be kicking off at 10.30am at Hartsdown Leisure Centre playing fields in Margate.

 

Guest Pat Jennings is McDonald’s head of football in Northern Ireland.

 

Also watching will be McDonald’s head coach Eric Harrison, who as former head of Manchester United’s youth academy is credited with helping create the ‘Class of 92’, including Paul Scholes, the Neville brothers and David Beckham.

 

Mr Crocker said: “In 2009 we twinned our Westwood restaurant in Kent with Thanet Colts FC to improve the standards of grass-roots football in and around Thanet.

 

“We’ve provided the club with kit and coaching equipment, which has helped boost the morale of the young players.

 

“With the open day, we’re encouraging the wider Kent community to get involved and give our youngsters access to the best in football training and coaching.”

 

Alex Smith, manager of Thanet Colts Under-10s FC, said: “This is the first year we’ve hosted a McDonald’s Football Open Day. They are a great way for our community to celebrate and share its passion for football.

 

“Pat Jennings will be welcoming as many people as possible.”