MEMORIES of his own childhood as a schoolboy footballer were evoked for former England goalkeeper Peter Shilton when he visited Derby this weekend.
He was paying a flying visit to meet fledgling footballers from Allestree Juniors FC as part of the 2014 FA and McDonald's Community Awards.
Allestree Juniors has won the Derbyshire FA Charter Standard Development Club Award for the past two years and nominations have now opened for this season.
The visit was arranged by McDonald's franchisee Tim Dobbs as part of the link-up between the football club and company.
2nd video: The club, which was founded in 1977 and has 32 teams and 450 members, was showing off players from its under-seven, under-eight and under-ten squads.Mr Shilton, who played for Derby County from 1987 to 1992, said he was delighted to be able to spend some time coaching and speaking with the youngsters.
He said: "Working with players at grass roots level is so important and the earliest days are a time in my life I remember with fondest memories.
"I remember being the same age as these players and picking up my kit on a Friday night, carrying out the goalposts on a Saturday and getting the kit washed ready for the next time.
"I was lucky to join one of the biggest boys' clubs in the country at Blaby, in Leicester, and then being spotted by Leicester City at the young age of 10 and playing at schoolboy international level. Clubs like this one are so important for helping children to enjoy football at all levels and to give parents help and advice.
"Only a few children go on to become full-time players and it is important that parents don't try to live their lives through their children and push them. They should be allowed to enjoy their sport."
Mr Shilton spent time having his photograph taken with some parents who stayed to watch, as well as the players, and also spent time coaching the youngsters in goalkeeping techniques.
Parent Sharon Magas, of Allestree, whose son Dan attends the football club and plays in the under-sevens' team, thought it was "great" that Mr Shilton had paid a visit.
She said: "Although they may not know him from his playing days, he is known by his reputation, especially among parents.
"It was interesting to see more dads here today than usual.
"The club is great for the kids and Dan is really enjoying playing with them."
Club secretary Claire Brandon has the task of ensuring that all the teams have regular fixtures and places to practice.
She said: "We met with Peter Shilton on the artificial pitch at the University of Derby but, in reality, our teams train in many different places, such as Mackworth and Woodlands School, in Allestree.
"It's a boost for the club to be hosting a famous player and adds to the prestige we have had from winning the Derbyshire FA award for the past two years."
One former Derby man had an unexpected bonus on a week-long trip he was making from New York, where he now lives.
Trevor Whittingham, a die-hard Derby County fan, heard that Mr Shilton was in the city from his nephew, a member of Allestree Juniors.
Mr Whittingham said: "It was amazing that, during my trip, I should get to meet my all-time favourite England goalkeeper.
"He was very pleasant and seemed genuinely interested to hear that I happened to be back in Derby visiting my mother. I can't believe it. I really enjoy football and listen to the Rams on the internet every time they play."
