In a special presentation held at the Shrub End Community & Sports Centre on Thursday (15th), children from the King's Ford Primary School heard their U's heroes own personal experiences of racism and also watched a DVD to learn how to recognise and challenge racist behaviour.

The 'Show Racism the Red Card' charity was launched ten years ago.

POSING QUESTIONS: The kids get their chance to interview Chris and George

 Players such as Shaka Hislop, Thierry Henry and many other ex-professionals together with football clubs have helped thousands of children to understand how racism affects not only footballers but also people in their own school and society in general.

Following the film, the children were encouraged to ask Chris and George questions, and special prizes were awarded for the best questions. 

Then every pupil also had the opportunity to get an autograph from both players before heading outside for a bit of football coaching from the Colchester United Community Sports Trust coaches.

Spokesman for the charity, Gav Sutherland said: "The campaign harnesses the high profile of professional footballers to combat racism in society.

"It is not just the current footballers that are role models to young people.

"The ex-players we work with are able to have a great impact and the football training has been a great way of making our campaign an exciting addition to the school curriculum wherever we have been."

LUCKY WINNER: Jessica gets her prizes for asking the day's best question

After the training session, the children were rewarded with free Colchester United and England posters, wristbands, U's programmes and a special 'Red Card' magazine.

There are many resources available to schools from the charity and these can be found at their website, www.srtrc.org or telephone 0191 291 0160 for more information.