Youngsters in Tendring have the chance to take part in a free five-a-side Futsal tournament next month - and there is still time to get your entry in.

Last year the event was staged in February and attracted more than 200 young people to battle it out for the trophies.

Futsal is fast, simple and fun - soccer in its purest form.

The game can be played on any surface and you only need a few players and a ball. It also involves hockey goals, a smaller than normal ball, touchlines and all players are allowed in the penalty area - unlike other forms of five-a-side.

Now Tendring District Council (TDC) has joined forces with Nacro to stage this year's competition on May 10, 2009 on the artificial pitch at Clacton Leisure Centre.

The tournament will include teams of boys, girls and mixed teams with age groups of 13-14 years, 15-16 years and 17-19 years.

Pierre Oxley, Portfolio Holder for Leisure at TDC, said he was delighted the Council was supporting the event by coming up with £1,000 to meet the costs.

"Nacro's sports co-ordinator Bryan McManus came up with the idea and we were more than happy to get behind it financially," he said.

"It will involve a large number of teenagers in a very positive activity and help promote the idea of getting fit. We are looking for entries from clubs, schools and other organisations and I am sure they will have a great day."

There are nine different categories with a minimum of five and maximum of eight players per squad.

The tournament will kick-off at 9.30am and go though until 3pm.

Mr McManus said he was grateful for TDC's financial backing and hoped the event would prove a great success.

"There is still time for teams to sign up and anyone interested should contact Nacro for a form on 01255 431877 or by requesting a form from me by email, bryan.mcmanus@nacro.org.uk ," he said.

Entry forms need to be returned by May 5, 2009.

24/4/09