The last Lord Mayor of Bradford showcased some silky ball skills when he presented a cheque to a football academy as one of his last engagements in the role.

Councillor Dale Smith, whose successor Coun Khadim Hussain was installed on Tuesday, donated £1,000 to Manningham Football Academy as part of his Sprinkle Sunshine appeal.

And academy founder Khalil Hussain revealed that Coun Smith had “a nice touch” when he enjoyed a kickabout with youngsters.

Mr Hussain said the money would help buy equipment and pay towards hiring the academy’s base at Manningham Sports Centre.

“It is absolutely brilliant,” said Mr Hussain. “Without the support of the Lord Mayor we would not be able to carry on the work we do.

“For the Lord Mayor to contribute is brilliant and we are thankful, not only as an academy but also as a community.”

The academy runs football sessions on Saturdays for about 80 youngsters aged from six to 16. It has been running for more than seven years providing opportunities and training for young people from the local community.

Mr Hussain said: “Some of the young people that started with us years ago now coach the new generation and we want that to carry on.

“The project helps young people to make the right choices and give them something positive to do and to become future leaders. It also gives children and young people the chance to get out of their local area and interact and engage with others around the district.”