FOOTBALLERS are starring in an advert to improve people's prospects and inspire them to learn.

Witton Albion players have made the advert with the Zone in Northwich, Vale Royal Borough Council's learning centre, as part of a campaign to reach people who left school without realising their potential.

Mark Peers, winger for Witton Albion, said: "It's important to have a good education because I won't always be playing football and will need something to fall back on.

"I'm currently studying sports therapy part time at college and want to go into that when I finish playing football.

"Updating skills and qualifications is very important - I encourage people to go to the council's learning centres and find out about available courses."

The advert, set to be broadcast in local pubs during transmission of Witton Albion's matches, features striker Rob Thornley, midfield players Steve Brodie, Dave MacPherson and Rob Lloyd, defender Cavell Coo and coach Nigel Deeley.

It was inspired by footballer Wayne Rooney who did not see the need to take any GCSEs as a teenage prodigy at Everton but hopes to pass GCSEs in English and maths this summer.

A variety of new courses will start after Easter and the Zone, based at Northwich railway station, offers a range of free training opportunities and support in improving skills and updating qualifications.

Clr Herbert Manley, lead councillor for lifelong learning, said: "The regeneration projects in our borough, such as Northwich Vision and Winning Winsford, will bring many new job prospects.

"We want to help local people gain the skills and qualifications they need to succeed in getting those jobs."

Mike Worthington, chairman of Witton Albion, said: "As a local football club, Witton Albion is committed to providing sports and recreational links with everyone with the objective of raising aspirations and the well being of the community."

The advert, developed by Vale Royal Borough Council, Witton Albion and Sponsorlink, will also be shown on the council's community learning website, Witton Albion's website and YouTube.

You can also see the advert on our website - visit northwichguardian.co.uk and follow the video links.