HUNDREDS of youngsters have showed off their skills in small-sided football tournaments in South Cheshire.
More than 240 children transformed Barony Park, Nantwich, into a tournament showground as the Crewe and Nantwich Football Festival took hold.
More than 500 budding stars representing in excess of 80 teams descended on Sand-bach Rugby Club on Saturday and Sunday for the Sandbach United's Festival of Football.
It proved there is no such thing as an off-season for South Cheshire youngsters where football is concerned, and the summer sun just makes their favourite game all the more enjoyable.
At the Nantwich event, Nantwich Town beat Nantwich Diablos 3-2 in the school Years 5 and 6 final, Willaston White Star overcame Nantwich Town Dabbers 3-1 to win the Years 7 and 8 prize, and Nantwich Diablos pipped Nantwich Town Dabbers 2-1 in the Year 9 final.
Organiser Geoff Beadle, of Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, said: 'The day was a huge success with a spectacular demonstration of football skills and technical knowledge. Thanks to Nantwich Town FC for all their work, and sponsors Concorde Trophies.
Meanwhile at Sandbach, U7 winners were Wilmslow with Wistaston runners-up. Bocca Juniors lifted the U8 cup after beating Tarvin in the final.
Macclesfield Boys were supreme in the U9s despite the efforts of Frodsham, and Sandbach United A were top dogs at U10 level, with Sandbach United B in second.
In the girls' U10 tournament Crewe and Nantwich were victors over Sandbach United at the climax, and Witton Albion took the U12 spoils, from runners-up Rooftech Rangers.
Club spokesman John Clayton said: 'Sandbach United would like to thank sponsor, Robert Eardley & Son for their support, and Nicky Maynard of Crewe Alexandra for presenting the trophies.'
Boys or girls interested in playing for Sandbach United, from U7s to open age, can contact Saul Furse on 07739038064.
