Local kids were given the perfect start to their summer holidays earlier this month, when Pontefract Collieries hosted the first of many BOSS Soccer Summer Camps.

The camp allowed 61 kids, from age five to fourteen, to enjoy football coaching of the highest standard at the Baris NCEL Division One club.

The event ran over four days, culminating in a guided tour around Leeds United's Elland Road Stadium and presentation of awards to the children by Leeds legend Peter Lorimer and current Leeds star Ben Parker who is, himself, Pontefract born and bred.

BOSS Active Sports was founded by Ponte Colls manager Brendon Ormsby - a Leeds legend himself - and is run by his son Liam.

Liam has also recently signed for the club and is making a major impact in the centre of the Colls midfield following his move from Garforth Town.

Ormsby Senior made guest appearances throughout the week as a coach, alongside regular coaches Liam, together with ex-Bradford City striker David Brown, who is also a partner in the venture.

Also coaching through the week were Scott Smith and Miles Sutton, who many will know as the son of Leeds United's longest-serving physiotherapist.

All the coaches are fully qualified junior football coaches, and delivered a high level of expertise and enthusiasm.

The kids - which included a number of girls - had a fantastic week, with many keen to return later in the summer for the next such event.

Players of all abilities attended, including several of the Colls junior players, and many who were making their first visit to The White Rose Stadium.

Liam Ormsby explained that the philosophy of BOSS is to make sure that kids learn while having fun: "All the activities are fun which helps to create a great learning environment for the kids.

"We cover all the basic football skills - passing, running with the ball, shooting etc. - within fun games, to make sure the kids stay interested and have a great time."

They even arranged the perfect weather for the event.

Hosting such events is part and parcel of Pontefract Collieries' aim to put the club at the centre of the local community, and to offer quality coaching to kids throughout the area.

The club is working in partnership with BOSS and other organisations to develop a range of community football schemes.

With the Pontefract Pirates offering great opportunities for people of all ages with learning difficulties, the summer soccer camps represent the latest development in the club's community portfolio.

A further camp is being planned for the final week of the school summer holidays, with a few places still being available.

Anybody wishing to book should ring BOSS Active Sports on 07946 794989.