YOUNGSTERS in Johnstone have been given a helping hand to embrace the beautiful game, thanks to a local football coaching company.

Thorn Athletic's 2015 team have received 18 new top-of-the-range Mitre footballs to be used for their training and games.

They were donated by Empire Performance Coaching, which offers one-to-one coaching sessions for all age groups.

The Gazette:

The company, which is run by Kilbirnie Ladeside player Jack Haggerty, also provides camps during the school holidays that have proved very popular with local youngsters.

A spokesperson for Thorn Athletic said: "It's great to have Empire on board and massive thanks to Jack and his team for their support.

"Many of the team attend his camps and individual sessions and we are delighted he has given something back to the group."