FOOTBALL fever took hold at a football open day in Neston when Ian Rush turned up to share his skills.

Local youngsters and their families headed to the McDonald’s and Allport Hawks Football Open Day.

Organised by McDonald’s franchisee, Paul Griffiths and Allport Hawks JFC, the open day offered families throughout the wider Wirral, Ellesmere Port and Chester area the once in a lifetime chance to meet one of Liverpool’s greatest legends and, for youngsters, the opportunity to have their skills seen by one of the most celebrated coaches in the English game.

The event aimed to inspire youngsters to sharpen their skills through a series of interactive coaching sessions, mini-tournaments and skills’ inflatables, designed to help develop dribbling, aerial ability and shooting accuracy.

The open day was attended by Liverpool legend, Ian Rush, who shared his insights and some of the tips and tricks he acquired in an illustrious career.

Also on hand was McDonald’s head coach Eric Harrison, who as former head of Manchester United's Youth Academy is credited for helping to create the infamous ‘Class of 92’, including Paul Scholes, the Neville Brothers and David Beckham.

James Bushell, vice-chairman of Allport Hawks JFC said: “Today has been a great day for celebrating and sharing our passion for football – and we want to thank McDonald’s franchisee, Paul Griffiths for organising today for the benefit of our whole community. Grassroots football is key to the development of the national game and it was inspiring to see so many people, young and old getting involved.”