Football rounds off Fairtrade Fortnight

ON the ball . . . players from St Joseph’s School and Holy Trinity, Dobcross, in action

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FOOTBALL stars of the future took part in a Fairtrade football tournament to celebrate the finale of Fairtrade Fortnight.

A total of 12 primary schools competed in the five-a-side competition using Fairtrade footballs and enjoying Fairtrade snacks and refreshments.

Pupils from St Joseph’s School, Shaw, were presented with the winning trophy by Latics player Dale Stephens after beating Holy Trinity, Dobcross, in the final.

The tournament, hosted by Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale along with Oldham Athletic Football Club, was organised to build on Oldham’s status as a Fairtrade borough.

Full time graduate volunteers with Groundwork helped to coordinate the event as part of their placement.

James Mwale, Oldham Athletic, said: “We see this as a great initiative to support and by using football as a hook, we can engage young people in the local community in meaningful educational activities.”

Lottie Riddle, a Groundwork graduate volunteer, said: “The tournament is a great opportunity to bring together primary schools from different areas in Oldham to learn about Fairtrade while taking part in a sport they enjoy.”