He was at St Nicholas primary in Marton when a friend heard about the football teams run at the YMCA in St Annes.

Not keen on going on his own, he asked Hills to come along.

Hills made the team, his mate didn't. And 25 years on, Hills can look back on a lengthy footballing career that has included spells at Everton, Swansea, Sheffield Wednesday, Gillingham and Blackpool.

He is still playing at Fleetwood Town but now he's heading into new territory.

Inspired by his Blackpool-based mates Jamie Milligan and Gavin McCann, Hills is turning his hand to coaching.

The John Hills Football Academy begins at Highfield Humanities College later this month, for boys and girls of all ages.

And Hills, 31, is putting the emphasis on enjoyment.

"Nowadays kids are pushed into going to professional clubs too early and there is a lot of pressure put on them," he said.

"A lot of them get rejected and it is tough to have to deal with that at such a young age.

"I feel that five to 12-year-olds should be able to just enjoy it because I think when it's fun, their ability shines through quicker.

"All I ever wanted to do was be a footballer. I've been lucky to have had a really good career out of it and if I can pass something on to the next generation then that's great.

"Hopefully there will be a lot of kids, both boys and girls, who will enjoy it."

Hills' first Football Academy course takes place over the half term holidays, from Monday May 25 to Friday 29.

It is open to youngsters of any standard, aged 5-12. Cost is £12 a day or £50 for the full week. Call 07707 298963.