The ground-breaking scheme will take youngsters aged nine to 15-years-old to Berwick-Upon-Tweed for a week's training camp, based at the Haven holiday centre.

The camp will see the youngsters put through their paces with professional football coaches, who will be supervising their progress and organising tournaments and competitions, as well as coaching the finer points of the game.

Steadman said " I am really looking forward to the week.

"The boys and girls will be immersed in football, but it will also be a holiday for them as well, so the accent will be on fun and enjoyment.

"We took 75 children last year, so this year we are trying to take 100 children.

"We have a very experienced team of coaches in charge, including ex-professionals, who will supervise 24 hours a day."

The young players will stay at the holiday centre all week and train at the superb facilities of Berwick Middle School, renowned for having the best pitches in the area.

They will compete for various prizes and medals and, as part of the week, South Shields FC have provided season tickets to every boy and girl.

The dates are August 12-16, and places will be limited. For details, call Gary on 455 8605 or 07717413178.