12849/1GAZETTE & HERALD: A pair of pirates unearthed hidden talent at Leapfrog Nursery when they coached a motley crew of Chippenham tots to play football.

Bristol Rovers winger Lee Hodges, 26, and his midfield teammate Ryan Williams, 25, spent last Thursday afternoon playing soccer with 35 excited children.

The players, who both live in Cepen Park, said they were delighted to help out the nursery with the session, which is part of its programme of events to celebrate National Sports Awareness Week.

Mr Hodges said it was a bit of a family affair because his one-year-old daughter Millie attends the nursery, where his wife Laura, 24, works as an administrator.

"I have never taught children as young as this before, so it was a little daunting at first," he said.

"It was hard, but the main point was that they enjoyed themselves."

Mr Williams, who is hoping to send his two-and-a-half-year-old daughter Jordann to the nursery, added: "I don't see coming here as much of an effort. If the kids enjoy it I don't think it is much to ask."

Mr Hodges said the children played several five-a-side games and some simple games. Leapfrog Nursery manager Michelle Fernandez, said: "I'm quite excited and the children were looking forward to it all week."

The two players also brought a football signed by the whole team as a gift for the nursery. The manager said it would be raffled to raise cash for Bath Royal United Hospital's special care baby unit.