By Rebecca James

Charlton captain Johnnie Jackson’s academy is booming after he hosted another fun-filled week of football for children.

The second half-term football frenzy was a resounding success according to parents and children of the Jackson academy.

This half term saw the numbers double with up to 50 in attendance who were able to play and train on a brand new 3g pitch at Meridian Sports and Social Cub.

Children from the ages of five to 14 years of age were trained by UEFA A licensed coaches and Jackson.

There were awards given at the end of the course and the winners of each age group received footballs and shirts signed by the Charlton team.

Jackson said: “We were very pleased with how the second academy course went.

“Our numbers had pretty much doubled since the October event.

“I think this shows how things are moving in the right direction.

“We want to keep improving with every course so the kids keep wanting to come back and also that they continue to develop their skills and improve as footballers.”

Parent Charlotte Wheeler was delighted with how the course went.

She said: “It is such a good idea because there are not a lot of facilities around, so having the 3g course and great coaches here is a good opportunity for them.

“My kids love football and they are definitely going to want to come again in Easter.”