BUDDING reporters were rewarded after taking on a ten-week course to build their confidence and social skills with the help of the Echo and Southend United.

The Press Zone project saw 10 and 11-year-old children from Porters Grange Primary School learn new skills and take on weekly challenges at the Extra Time SUFC Learning Zone, based at Cecil Jones College on Eastern Avenue, Southend.

The young cub reporters have quizzed the Echo’s sports reporter, Chris Phillips, and Southend United youth team player, Daniel Walker – himself a former Porters Grange pupil.

Along the way they also learned about photography from the Echo’s Al Underwood, and even shorthand from former Echo editor, Colin Channon.

On Monday night the group of pupils were presented with certificates and gifts from Southend United by the club’s chief executive, Steve Kavanagh, and Matt Knight, the Echo’s Southend news editor.

Annette Olford, learning zone manager, said: “We have been proud to see the children excel in their writing and communication skills by practising and developing their interview and writing techniques across a wide range of media.

“Through working with Southend United Football Club and the Echo they have been able to apply their skills and knowledge in this real world context – the support of both organisations has been invaluable to their success.”