Young footballers in Belper were treated to a memorable experience during October half-term earlier this week as Derby County Men’s players Matt Clarke and Liam Thompson made a surprise visit to Derby County Community Trust’s Holiday Coaching Club, hosted at Belper Leisure Centre.

The visit was part of the Holiday Coaching programme, delivered by the Community Trust, which runs across Derbyshire during school holidays.

These sessions are designed to keep children aged 5–11 active, engaged and having fun through football, with a mix of skill-building drills, small-sided games, and exciting tournaments.

The October Holiday Camps welcome over 25 children per day, all eager to sharpen their skills and make new friends. The visit from Clarke and Thompson on the first day of the course added a special touch, as the Derby duo spent time chatting with the children, answering questions about life as professional footballers, and even joined in with some of the afternoon matches.

Each day at the Community Trust’s Holiday Coaching sessions mornings focus on technical skills and drills, while afternoons are packed with mini tournaments inspired by famous competitions. Children represent clubs and countries in friendly matches and take part in ‘Coaches Challenges’ to test their abilities in...