A FREE community football and physical activity pilot for boys and girls aged ten to 13 is being trialled in Thurrock.

The purpose of the pilot is to give local children an accessible opportunity to stay active, build confidence, make friends and enjoy football in a safe and supportive community environment.

The first session took place at Orsett Heath Academy in Grays on Friday, 30 October, with 15 children taking part. Another takes place this coming Saturday (7 November).

The initiative, called Windy Active Kids, has been launched by Basildon-based Windy Sport Group Ltd and its founder Windokun Ayo.

The programme is aimed at non-academy players and is free to families.

The sessions operate with three coaches and safeguarding-led arrangements.

Mr Ayo says: "We have also been encouraged by the local community response. Since launching, Windy Active Kids has been:

• promoted through Find Your Active Thurrock
• listed on the Active Essex / Find Your Active Activity Finder
• featured in the Thurrock CVS Community Newsletter
• shared through local community and social-media channels
• supported with local school promotion, with Orsett Heath Academy helping to cascade information about the programme

"A number of pupils from local schools have also already taken part.

"Our next and final session of this initial pilot takes place on Saturday, from 3 to 4pm, with registration from 2.30pm, also at Orsett Heath Academy.

"It is open to boys and girls aged 10–13 who are not currently signed to a professional football academy. New participants are welcome, including children who did not attend the first session.

"Places are free and limited. Parents/carers must register online and receive confirmation of an accepted place before attending.

"Our aim is to use this initial pilot to understand local demand and demonstrate what can be achieved when accessible opportunities are made available to children and families in the community."

Registration and full information: https://pilot.windysportgroup.co.uk/