GIRLS will be bending it like Beckham in Preston when they sign up for the new Football Academy at Myerscough College, near Preston, later this year.

The academy, which aims to turn out the female equivalent of England and Manchester United star David Beckham, will be open from September giving girl students the opportunity to study football at diploma level.

The students will not have to be great football players, but a lot of energy and a desire to train is a must.

The girls will learn everything there is to know about the game, from fitness training, sports injuries, nutrition for football and psychology for sports performance.

They will of course attend matches, practise their dribbling and perfect their ball skills.

The academy was the brain child of David Grecic, programme leader for sport at the college.

Coach Laura McIntosh, a member of the Scottish Universities National Team will be overseeing the course.

She said: "Football is the fastest growing participation sport for women in the UK and yet education in the field is distinctly lacking throughout the country.

"Our academy will give girls the chance boys have had for years, to gain a qualification in the sports industry at the same time as developing as a player. A qualification in football studies could lead to a wide range of career opportunities for these girls including football coaching, physiotherapy or even professional playing."

Laura is now arranging taster sessions for girls in schools county wide to try out the sport. For information on the course call the college on 01995 642211.