Young people and police officers in Royston are taking part in a football project to build positive relationships.

Following a successful pilot last year, officers have collaborated with Stevenage Football Club and King James Academy to launch the project.

The weekly sessions are being run as part of the Premier League Kicks campaign, and are open to King James Academy students in years 7, 8 and 9.

PC Tom Woollard, of the Royston Neighbourhood Policing Team, developed the scheme.

He said: "I have been involved with football my whole life and am aware that at around the age of 13 we see a big drop out from football.

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“This coincides with the age that children may start to get in trouble with police or be directed by negative influences.

"The aim of the project is to interact with local youths through a fun, footballing environment in order to educate, build positive relationships with teachers and police, and maintain engagement in sport.

"We had 35 boys and girls attend the first session and it’s anticipated that uptake will increase as the weeks go by."