Fifty youngsters who have been motivated to improve their education through football were last night recognised for their achievements.

City star Wes Hoolahan presented the children with certificates at Carrow Road to mark their formal graduation from the Double Club – a football-themed educational course run by Norfolk County Council in partnership with Norwich City Football Club.

The latest graduates from the course, which uses football to motivate children to develop their skills in English and maths, were from Foulsham Primary School, Cawston Primary School, Sprowston High School and Sewell Park College.

Alison Thomas, cabinet member for children's services at Norfolk County Council, said: 'I'm delighted to be able to congratulate this new group of Double Club graduates.

'Once again the Double Club has shown that children can boost their educational achievements when they are motivated by something that inspires them.

'And what can be more inspiring than using Premier League football as a way of encouraging students to improve their literacy and numeracy skills?

'In Norfolk we are ambitious for our children, and place strong emphasis on making learning fun. Our Study Support team is having great success in engaging with youngsters to give them extra help with their learning.'

More than 650 students have now completed the Double Club course since it was launched by the county council in 2007. Next term, students from Woodlands Primary, Reepham Primary, Sprowston High and Downham Market High schools will take part in the programme.