Morecambe FC is to hold the first in a series of international football camps in the Isle of Man over Easter.

Academy coaches from the Shrimps will travel to the island to provide a coaching programme for young footballers aged 6-16 years, helping players develop their skills with a programme focussing on technical and tactical aspects of the game.

The sessions are designed for footballers of all abilities and will be delivered by UEFA-qualified staff from the academy.

The camps also provide an opportunity for Morecambe’s academy coaches to identify talented players and offer a possible pathway into the academy and a scholarship with the club.

RYCOB’s Scoill ree Gorree ground will provide the venue for the camp, which takes place between April 3-5 and is the first such venture in the north of the island.

Morecambe’s head of youth, Stewart Drummond, said: ’We’ve been working for some time now to develop links around the world and it creates exciting opportunities for the club.

’Our visit to the Isle of Man is the first stage of a programme that will see Morecambe FC extend its reach to Northern Ireland, Canada and Australia in the coming months.

’We’ve already seen players from Australia, Northern Ireland and across Europe playing in our first team. It shows the talent is out there and can be added to the youngsters we are developing locally.

’We all know there is a great appetite for sport in the Isle of Man, so I’m sure we will find a lot of enthusiasm when we bring our coaches to Ramsey.’

Mike Hinchcliffe, academy director and regular visitor to the island for the TT and Manx Grand Prix, also commented:

’This is a fantastic opportunity for Morecambe Football Club to showcase its excellent academy expertise in an ever-expanding search for new talent.

’All youngsters will be able to benefit from attending the camps, which should be thoroughly enjoyable for those taking part.’

The camp will cost £30 for three days for 6-12 years olds and £10 for two sessions for 13-16 year olds.

For more information and to book a place at the camps, visit www.morecambefc.com/soccercamps