Blues' Wast Hills training ground was the venue for a fantastic football festival enjoyed by deaf children and young people.

Birmingham City signed the National Deaf Children's Society's Friendly Football Club pledge in April this year and the club was delighted to follow that up recently by hosting an event which was a great hit with the youngsters.

Footie-mad boys and girls aged 6-16 took part in coaching sessions and mini games organised by FA qualified coaches from the Blues' Football in the Community team whilst NDCS volunteers provided communication support.

Community officer Dean Holtham said: "The football festival was a fantastic event and all of the young people really enjoyed themselves.

"Inviting them along for the festival shows we are committed to and serious about the NDCS project and we are pleased we were able to put smiles on so many faces."

Over the next couple of years, with the support of the NDCS, there will be more coaching sessions for deaf footballers, with the ultimate aim of setting up a Birmingham City Deaf Football Club.

The Deaf Friendly Football Project is being funded with the help of the Football Foundation, and additional support from Phonak UK and Sportsmatch.

Clubs who have signed the pledge have access to deaf awareness training, information, resources, equipment and support.

The project is also actively recruiting and training deaf adults to become qualified football coaches.

This will be combined with a programme of Deaf Friendly Football Festivals, a national database of clubs, tournaments and conferences to provide opportunities for deaf children and young people to participate in football at all levels.

For more information on the great work done by the National Deaf Children's Society visit www.ndcs.org.uk