SWINDON Primary Schools Football Association held its fourth annual five-a-side festivals throughout the month of January.

The festivals, for pupils aged 7-9 years and girls aged 9-11, took place on four consecutive Fridays at the Play Football Arena in Kembrey Park.

Due to increased interest from schools this year, an extra date was needed, with more than 300 children from 24 schools participating.

Association secretary Steve Beale said: “For many of the children, it was the first time they had represented their school or played in any football team, so we wanted the emphasis of these festivals to be on fun and enjoyment, rather than winning a trophy or competition.

“Every child received a certificate recognising their participation and seeing all the exhausted smiles at the end proved they enjoyed the whole experience”.

More than 600 goals were scored in 100 matches, with the festivals supported by Play Football, Swindon Town Football in the Community and Inspire Sport UK, who helped fund the events and supplied referees.

Beale added: “We are extremely grateful to Olly Ballinger at Play Football, Clive Maguire from STFC FitC and Ben Sadler from Inspire Sport UK. Without their assistance, these festivals could not have taken place.’’