Local lad William Sykes proved he has some of the safest hands in Kent when he was snapped up as a junior goalkeeper by Gillingham FC.

Scouts for the Coca-Cola League One side discovered the Monkton youngster, whose natural ability wowed coaches at the Just for Keepers (J4K) training academy.

The 11-year-old clinched an initial six-week trial with the Gills' under-12s team but has since secured a permanent deal and is now denying opponents on a weekly basis.

Former Gillingham and Ramsgate coach Andy Woodcock, who runs local J4K classes, said: "I've been working with William since he joined to help improve his skills around three years ago.

"When I was approached by Gillingham and asked if I had anyone for their youth set-up, he seemed an ideal choice."

William's exciting move to the Medway club is a blow to his friends and officials at Monkton Youth FC, who will be hard-pushed to find another goalkeeper as talented as the youngster.

Andy Brazil, head coach of the village team, said: "A couple of years ago, I set up an academy for local children who weren't being given much of a chance. William turned up for two sessions and I could see straight away that he could be a very good 'keeper.

"His natural ability just shone through. He is brave, agile, athletic and has all the attributes he needs to succeed."

J4K is an international coaching initiative that has helped more than 200 goalkeepers achieve their dream of playing professional football.

For information about local sessions, contact Andy Woodcock on 01843 604942 or 07976 587101 or emailandy.woodcock@just4keepers.co.uk.