PHOTOGRAPHS taken in 1938 have inspired a commemorative football project bringing Chelsea FC coaches to Harwich.

In 1938 and 39 about 10,000 mostly Jewish children travelled from Nazi-occupied Europe to safety in Britain.

For those children, Harwich was the first port of safety and many stayed in the former Warner's holiday camp while they waited to join their host families across the UK.

The story of the children's arrival was featured in The Picture Post at the time with pictures taken in Harwich by photographer Kurt Hutton.

Those poignant photographs have now inspired a football event, organised by the Harwich Haven for the Surrender and Sanctuary Project.

On Saturday, April 27, the project will join with Chelsea FC and Harwich and Parkeston FC.

Youngsters aged 11 to 14 will be able to learn new football skills with expert football coaching and education from the Chelsea FC Foundation as well as learn about the historic event.

David Cain, manager of Harwich Haven, said: "Football has a unique ability to bring people together.

"The Kindertransport story is so special to Harwich, and to be able to make this important anniversary with Chelsea FC and Harwich and Parkeston will help us pass this vital story on to a new generation."

Saved….Football Welcomes The Kindertransport will run from 10am to 1pm with each participant getting a goody bag and certificate from Chelsea FC.

There will also be an exhibition of Kurt Hutton’s pioneering football photographs.

All participants will also gain free entry into the match that day between Harwich & Parkeston FC and Burnham Ramblers.

Pre booking is essential at info@nhscic.org

For more information visit harwichhavenhistory.co.uk.