A magical day with SAFC Wembley legend Monty

But that is exactly what happened to these Seaham youngsters when they got to spend the day with former Sunderland hero Jimmy Montgomery.

There were 200 of the keen young footballers and it was not just one day that they had on a coaching course. It was a week-long chance to get to know well-known faces such as Jimmy Montgomery, Mick Docherty and another footballing professional Ian Hughes.

The effect that the stars had on the youngsters won the praise of people at Seaham Leisure Centre where the course was held.

Coach Ron Lewin said at the time: “It is the best organised course I have seen for some time. The lads have shown a very high standard and they have all enjoyed it.”

All the youngsters who received the coaching were aged under-13 and they also got to spend some time with other coaches such as Pat Cuff, Harry Wilson and Gavin Liddell.

It all went so well that officials were planning a second course which was going to be held soon after.

There were trophies as well and they were handed out to the most improved players. They included Paul College, R Ruddock, I. White, Graham Self, D.Dixon, Neil Hambleton, and Jason Porteous.