ALEX Pritchard was on hand to meet children on the first FITC Elite camp during half term at Stratton Community Centre’s new 3G pitch.

The course was open to players who attend the advanced centres and focused on the tactical as well as practical elements of the game.

Shane Hewlett, who oversees the advanced centres, was delighted with the camp’s success.

He said: “The players really bought into the techniques that we were using and felt the performances got better as the week went on.

“It was great to see Alex, who offered advice to the younger generation on life as a professional footballer.”

The players will now go back to training on a weekly basis with the next Elite camp planned for Easter, with a scheduled game against a Arsenal development side.

The Trust have recently expanded their community scheme and are on the lookout for coaches of a minimum FA Level 2 qualification.

Anyone interested should contact Shane Hewlett on 01793 617718 or via shane@stfc-fitc.co.uk.