FOOTBALL came home to Prestwich and Whitefield with the launch of two new ball zones for youngsters.

Manchester City and England player Trevor Sinclair went back to his roots to sign autographs for fans at St Mary's Park, Prestwich, while Shakers mascot, Robbie the Bobby entertained youngsters at Victoria Park in Whitefield. The two facilities are the latest £50,000 ball zones funded by Bury Council and Pilsworth Environmental Company, providing a venue for children to play football, netball, basketball and other sports in safety.

Both events were attended by the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Wilf Davison, and representatives from Bury's parks and countryside service.

More than 100 youngsters went to St Mary's Park to catch a glimpse of Trevor Sinclair, who was brought up in Whitefield.

And they were not disappointed!

Prestwich area co-ordinator, Carran O'Grady, said: "Trevor's interaction with the kids was fantastic. He was besieged by children who wanted his autograph or just wanted to be near him.

"He simply took it in his stride and gave the kids what they wanted, and nothing was too much for him.

"Trevor's a local bloke who, although a professional footballer, still appreciated how much fun the kids got out of having a kick around with him.

"On behalf of Prestwich, I would like to say a big 'thank-you' to him."

Although not as agile as Trevor Sinclair, Robbie the Bobby still managed to entertain visitors to Victoria Park's new ball zone.

Coun Davison joined in a game of cricket and gave out medals to youngsters who took part in various activities.

Ball zones have now been built in five locations in the Prestwich and Whitefield area, including Whitefield Park, Hathaway Road and Thatch Leach Lane.