YOUNGSTERS took to the football field in the play-offs for the second season of the Bexley Ball Court League.

The five-a-side league, aimed at youngsters who would otherwise be out on the streets, has proved a huge hit.

It attracts hundreds of players to weekly coaching sessions and matches.

More than 80 players from 10 teams competed in the finals, held at the GOALS centre, Graham Road, Bexleyheath, in front of supporters and some of the league organisers.

After an exhausting series of matches, Thamesmead Boys emerged to take the winners' trophy.

Runners-up were The Click from Belvedere, with The Rifts from Welling in third place and Classic Six from Thamesmead came fourth.

All four teams received their News Shopper-sponsored trophies from Editor Andrew Parkes.

He said: "The standard of football and behaviour was impressive and News Shopper is delighted to be able to contribute to this worthwhile project."

Other guests included Graham Hobbins, chairman of Welling United FC, and Mark Leckie from Charlton Athletic FC's community scheme which provides professional coaches for the project.

Also at the play-offs were PC Don Shrimpton from Bexley police's anti-social behaviour team, youth worker Tony Ball and Julie Hayward from Bexley youth service as well as Police Community Support Officers from all the areas taking part.

The summer league is already under way and preparations have begun for the autumn season, although there may be a question mark over funding.

Mr Ball is also working on plans to attract more girls' teams into the league.

Any girls interested in joining, or companies who would like to offer sponsorship to the project can call Mr Ball on 07980 815783.