Football fever hit Stevenage at the McDonald’s Football Open Day with England and Arsenal legend Martin Keown on hand to share tips with local youngsters and the opportunity to have their skills seen by Eric Harrison, the former Manchester United Youth Academy head credited for helping to created the ‘Class of 92’ including Paul Scholes, the Neville brothers and David Beckham.

Local MP Stephen McPartland, who joined the Open Day, commented: "This was a fantastic day and a real opportunity to showcase our local footballing talent. The commitment of local volunteers, the Academy and players and staff at Stevenage FC made this a great day for parents and children. None of this would have been possible without McDonalds focus on practical community initiatives and I am delighted they have such a proactive relationship with our town. The local franchisee Mike Ghazarian, Is a real inspiration and asset to Stevenage."

Alex Tunbridge, Head of Stevenage Football Club in the Community, says: “We’re delighted to have been involved with the McDonalds Football Open Day and we know from experience that they’re a great way for our community to celebrate and share its passion for football. It was great to have Martin Keown with us.”

Mike Ghazarian, the local McDonald’s franchisee added: "I’ve been involved in helping to improve the standards of grassroots football in and around Stevenage for a few years and this summer’s event follows on from the hugely successful McDonald’s/Stevenage FC partnership in 2009. With the Open Day, we’re encouraging the wider Stevenage community to get involved and give our youngsters access to the very best in football training and coaching.”