A FORMER high school teacher is encouraging children to put down their phones and get moving.

Mike Williams, left Connah's Quay High School after 11 years to start his own business Progressive Sports.

The former P.E teacher aims to travel around the whole of North Wales and the Wirral delivering a multi-sports camp to get as many children active.

He told the Leader: "I've always loved football, I even went to America to play and I've always been sporty really. I spent time teaching and I just fancied something a bit different.

"I'm going to go around the whole of North Wales and Wirral delivering lessons and sports clubs.

"It's not just going to be football, will be any sports from cricket and tennis to archery and even inflatables like Zorb football and glow in the dark dodgeball.

"My plan is to do these camps across throughout the half terms as well. Anywhere where there's availability."

The business kickstarted in Penyffordd Youth Club with a special appearance from ex-Wrexham football player Robbie Evans on hand to give out prizes.

Mike added: "The kids have loved it, it's something a bit different. It's been okay so far, it's just getting my name out there.

"Football is my background but this is something a bit different for the children, they can go to football clubs anywhere so I've tried to make this more fun.

"Our motto is encouraging children to be more physically active.

"When I was a teacher we spoke a lot about childhood obesity so I'm really passionate about getting children off their mobile phones and their gaming consoles.

"It's also the social side, kids in Penyffordd had a lot of fun and made friends from different schools so it's that bonding process.

"With the multi-sports here also it's potentially finding a potential Olympic athlete.

"You may have an archer who never had the opportunity to play that sport and then from this, they can go on to pursue something they enjoy."

More information can be found by emailing Mike on m.williams@progressive-sports.co.uk.