Keeper Joe Hart inspires Shrewsbury youngsters

England goalkeeper Joe Hart returned to his Shrewsbury roots to inspire the next generation of footballers.

The Manchester City number one grew up in Shrewsbury and played for Shrewsbury Town.

He made an appearance at Prestfelde School in London Road yesterday.

Joined by his father Charlie, the star was dishing out the silverware after a tournament for boys and girls aged five to 12 being held on the school grounds.

The event was the culmination of week three of the HD Sports World Ltd Joe Hart Soccer School, taking place in Shrewsbury during the school summer holidays.

It sees groups of children from across Shropshire hone their skills with expert coaching, culminating in a mini tournament at the end of each week.

Yesterday, youngsters from Shrewsbury, Whit-church and Bridgnorth were among those who got to rub shoulders with their hero Joe. Charlie said: "Joe really likes to come back to Shrewsbury whenever he can.

"He thoroughly enjoyed the grass roots game as a child himself so he believes it's really important to support it now he's playing professionally."

The football schools have helped keep summer holiday boredom at bay during July and August for about 120 children.