29/08/07 : BHP premier Futsal League 2007

Young residents of St Raphaels, Brentfield and Mitchell Brook estate were kept busy this summer thanks to the BHP wardens who organised a Premier Futsal League to put them through their paces twice weekly at Toykington park .

For those not in the know, Futsal is a five a side game of football, played with hockey sized goals and a smaller ball with a reduced bounce.

The name derives from the Spanish and Portuguese words for "indoor football" and originates from South America but is now played the world over both indoors and out. Many famous players such as Christian Ronaldo and Luis Figo started out playing Futsal.

Within two weeks of the league being set up 30 goals were scored bringing new exciting life to the community on Wednesday and Friday evenings.

Over 80 young people have been attending throughout the eight weeks that the league runs. Four teams play in the over 16's division, three in the under 15's and two in the under 11s age group.

Wardens Manager Jane Lambert said: "With the use of local referees and the support of the BHP wardens, who attend every session, we have created a friendly, competitive and safe environment for youngsters to come and play in.

"By targeting areas known to have a high incidence of antisocial behaviour we hope to provide a positive alternative activity for young people by organising events such as these. The Futsal league has also helped build a good relationship between the young residents and our wardens."