World Cup legend Sir Geoff Hurst was the guest of honour during youth football day in Sturry.

Junior football from across east Kent clubs gathered at Bretts Quarry off Fordwich Road for a day of competition and fun organised by McDonald’s.

Sir Geoff, who is the fast food chain’s director of football, said: “These sort of events are absolutely vital in promoting the great game of football.

“It’s good to see all these people coming together to play and enjoy themselves and for people to give up there time organising it.

“And, importantly, we are working hard on training football coaches and providing footballs for children to play with.”

Sir Geoff, 67, is a member of the 1966 World Cup winning team.

The West Ham striker scored a hat trick in England’s 4-2 victory over West Germany.

After meeting dignitaries such as Canterbury and Whitstable MP Julian Brazier and Lord Mayor Harry Cragg, Sir Geoff held a question and answer session.

Mr Brazier said: “This was a very good event. Kids who do these sort of events learn discipline, comradeship and leadership and that’s very important.”

The day was the brainchild of McDonalds franchisee Paul Crocker who runs 10 restaurants across Kent.

He said: “This is our way of putting something back into the community. We’ve had a great day and it’s brilliant to see all these kids out playing football and being active.

“McDonald’s has strong connections with football. We sponsor the Community Shield and we have trained 20,000 coaches.”

The Community Shield itself was put on display and there was a chance to talk to Eric Harrison, who was the coach of the Manchester United youth team in the early 90s when it contained the likes of Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Nicky Butt.