SUCCESSFUL girls' football taster sessions have led to a follow-up training event taking place tonight, Thursday.

More than 40 girls attended the initial Woolston Rovers gatherings at Kings Leadership Academy in Woolston as part of an initiative promoted by the Football Association to generate interest from girls of primary and high school ages.

From Rovers' follow-up session tonight, which is for those in school years three to 10, club officials hope to sign up players to girls' teams.

The 90-minute taster nights were held by a committed group of Woolston Rovers coaches including Jimmy Bush, Ray Criozier, Craig Blackledge, Dean Frampton, Dan Flinders, Ste Williams and Jackie Thomson-Black (chairman), Jason Flinders (secretary) and Natalie Trantum (girls' football co-ordinator).

Former Woolston player Lily Rae, who currently plays for Stoke City Ladies under 14s, also assisted.

"The Tuesday and Wednesday evening sessions of girls' week went really well," said Trantum.

"Unfortunately, there aren’t many girls' teams in our area.

"My aim is to create as many girls' teams as possible. To make this happen we need girls who want to try football or continue their development to come along on Thursday, May 10."

The session will start at 6.30pm at King’s Leadership Academy, Hillock Lane, Woolston.

Those wishing to be involved should register their interest to woolstonrovers@gmail.com.

Rovers officials say their goal has always been that children of any ability enjoy learning to play football in a happy, safe environment.

Phoebe Kelly, a current Rovers player, said: "I love being part of the team and have made lots of new friends.

"It’s built up my confidence and keeps me fit while learning a new skill.”