TEENAGERS from Barrhead, Neilston and Eastwood took part in a fantastic week of football coaching and games at Cowan Park a decade ago.

Organised by East Renfrewshire Council and Active Schools, the Old Firm alliance involved coaches from Celtic and Rangers putting secondary school pupils through their paces in a bid to learn more about the skills of the game, as well as about respecting each other.

The event was aimed at bringing down social barriers and educating participants.

It was also hoped that more primary and secondary school pupils would be inspired to get involved in sport – and Active Schools co-ordinator Barry Cook certainly felt the week of Old Firm coaching was a fantastic way of doing so.

Barry said: “It is great to see so many boys and girls coming together to improve their football skills and keep fit but also mix with pupils from other schools.

“In light of the recent high profile problems,I’m sure all the players involved left with the message that tolerance and friendship is more important than the colour of the strip you wear.

“Above all, the players have commented on how it’s great to have something to keep them busy.”