A SCHEME aimed at children to highlight the importance of preventing infection has kicked off in Bournemouth.

Nuffield Health Hospital has teamed up with AFC Bournemouth to provide schools in the area with a series of free workshops and interactive football games informing kids how to stop germs and bacteria spreading.

The Bug Busters project was launched during the match against Charlton at the Goldsands Stadium recently.

The game saw Cherries commercial director Rob Mitchell and the Nuffield’s director, David McNair, shake hands at the pitch-side to seal their commitment to the project, while Nuffy and Cherry Bear visited Junior Cherries in the kids’ zone to educate the youngsters on how best to stop germs spreading.

Mr McNair said: “We are very excited to be launching the Bug Busters scheme in partnership with AFC Bournemouth. Together, we aim to help children learn to avoid preventable illnesses that can cause absences from school and have a negative impact on learning.”

Cherries right-back Simon Francis also put his backing behind the project, describing it as “brilliant and informative” idea.

He added: “As a father myself, I know first-hand the importance of avoiding preventable illnesses that can cause absences from school and have a negative impact on learning.”

Schools interested in finding out more about the sessions are invited to contact Steve Cuss at AFC Bournemouth on 01202 726342, or to contact the hospital’s customer services team on 01202 702830.