The sessions, which are taking place over a nine week period in Essex’s London Boroughs, are aimed at females who have never played football before plus women players who want to tidy up their skills and play regularly.

Last week’s opening session at Marshalls Park School in Romford saw over 30 female footballers take part and the Essex County FA’s Sharon Brownlie was delighted with the turnout: “It was amazing to have so many at our first session and it was also great to see the variety of people that we attracted.

“The sessions are open to females who are 16 and over but we had a huge range of ages as well as abilities which helped to make it an enjoyable experience for all.”

Taking part in her first football coaching session was Frances Smith: “I suffer from a knee problem but I still enjoyed getting involved in the physical aspects of the course even though I have only just got back from a skiing holiday!

“There were a fair few youngsters taking part but the general spread amongst the ages present was good. It must have been difficult for the organisers to know what activities to put-on as it was such a new concept but it’s something different for the young females to get involved in and could say football is the new aerobics!

“The potential for mums to get active could also prove vital for passing their knowledge of the game down to their children at an early age.”

If future sessions prove to be just as successful then the Essex County FA and course partners, Havering Council, will look to extend the programme with a view to setting up a brand Women’s football club as well.

If you would like to book a place on this course or would like to receive further information please contact Sharon Brownlie on 01245 393074 or email sharon.brownlie@essexfa.com.