Football fans who fancy their chances of following in Sven Goran Eriksson's footsteps when he retires as England coach later this year can get 'On The Ladder' thanks to Chorley's innovative sports scheme.

The coach education programme organised by Chorley Borough Council aims to increase capacity and raise standards of coaching and safe practice across the area within the community and in clubs.

And the programme is hoping to score with soccer fans of all ages by staging the Football Association's level one coaching certificate. Councillor Cath Hoyle, Chorley's executive member for life and leisure, said: "The course is a fantastic opportunity for people who want a career in coaching and who knows where it could lead in the future!

"This is the first time this course has been offered to people in Chorley. It will be delivered by the Lancashire FA and is subsidised in a bid to encourage as many as possible to attend."

The course is open to everyone over 16 who have left school and will take place at Holy Cross Science and Sports College during the first week of the Easter holidays on April 10, 11 and 13. Sessions on April 10 and 13 are between 9am-6pm with the session on the 11 between 9am-3pm.

Included in the course are modules in first aid, good practice and child protection, as well as practical coaching, demonstrations and logbook of achievement.The course also includes theory.

The cost is £40 per candidate (normal cost £85) and all elements of the course must be attended.

For more information on the FA Level One Coaching Certificate Course or On the Ladder contact Sports Development at Chorley Borough Council on 01257 515816/515817 or e-mail ontheladder@chorley.gov.uk or sports.development@chorley.gov.uk.