MORE than 100 new coaches are using their skills and knowledge to help county football clubs after attending Herefordshire FA courses last year.

And with an increase in the number of coaches, there are other benefits too, with more clubs throughout the county working with the HFA to raise the standard of football provision throughout Herefordshire.

There are currently 2,500 clubs and schools nationally which have achieved FA Charter Standard with six clubs and 22 schools within Herefordshire among them.

Now the HFA is seeking candidates, male or female and over the age of 16, to take part in the full course programme that they have in place for 2004.

There are six FA level one Certificate in Coaching courses, two FA level-two CCF courses, 10 child protection and best practice workshops, 14 emergency first aid courses, as well a soccer parent and charter standard workshops.

All courses are based at the Herefordshire FA offices at Widemarsh Common in Hereford.

The next level one course takes place in March and the 24 places will be allocated on a 'first come, first served' basis. There will be further level-one courses in April, July, September and October while level-two courses take place in May and August.

For details about courses, contact the HFA football development officer Paul Carpenter on (01432) 342179 or email him at paul.carpenter@herefordshirefa.com