The centre-back called at Stockport School in Davenport to open a new 3G pitch, part of a £2.4m improvement project at the school. 

The new pitch offers a synthetic but very realistic playing surface, mimicking the feel of playing on real grass. 

It's open just in time for the Euros - it means the Stockport School students will have ample inspiration and space to follow in Harwood-Bellis' footsteps. 

And the pitch will also be available for community use, too, outside school terms. 

Taylor himself is a former student at Stockport School. He started in Manchester City's academy and made a remarkable start to international football when he scored in his England debut against Ireland. 

Cllr Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Public Protection said: "Football is in the hearts of many Stockport residents and locally we have produced some fantastic home-grown talent, such as Phil Foden, Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer, Khiara Keating, Millie Turner and Taylor Harwood-Bellis, a proud Stockport School alumnus.

"These players exemplify the incredible potential that we strive to create, and we are delighted to be part of this project to inspire future generations. Our work with partners seeks to enable active lives for everyone in our community and pitches like these will increase grassroots participation. 

"Including for women and girls' football, walking football for older people and football sessions for mental wellbeing. This continues a long-standing tradition in Stockport of football bringing our community together."

Stockport School Headteacher Ian Irwin, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to officially open our new 3G pitch. This fantastic facility will transform our sporting provision here at Stockport School, offering our students the opportunity to train and compete on a professional-grade surface. It reflects our vision of excellence in all aspects of school life, including physical education and wellbeing."

"This investment also strengthens our commitment to the wider community, as the pitch will be available for local clubs and organisations to use outside of school hours. We're proud to be playing our part in promoting sport, health, and engagement across Stockport."

Peter Whitehead, Stockport School, Head of P.E, added: "These facilities will play a vital role in creating opportunities for our school and the local community to get active and have fun. At Stockport School we have club links with local clubs including Spurley Hey FC."

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