THE Annual Alcester Police Schools five-a-side Football Tournament, which has been run since 1989, took place at St Benedict's School on Saturday.

There were 40 teams taking part from 23 schools across the Alcester and Henley areas.

In the 11 and under tournament there were 24 teams from 19 junior schools playing in four leagues, with winners going through to the semi finals.

In the first of these Bidford A played St Mary's Studley.

This game had to go to extra time before St Mary's snatched the winning goal.

The second semi saw Our Lady's, Alcester beat Wilmcote in an exciting game.

The final was played with much passion and very good football.

Our Lady's took a 1-0 lead, which they kept to the final whistle to clinch the Stratford Crime Prevention Panel Shield.

The senior competitions for the National Schoolwear Centres trophies saw eight teams in both the 14 and under and 16 and under competitions, playing in two leagues.

The 14s and under final was between Studley High A and Alcester High A, a re-run of last year's final but this time Studley won 2-1 in a hard-fought game.

The 16 and under final was between St Benedict's A and B teams.

A fast flowing game played in difficult conditions, with both teams giving their all, it ended with a victory for the B team to take the title and trophy.

Mr Phil Brown of National Schoolwear Centres made the presentations to the winners and runners-up.

The organisers would like to thank all those who took part and helped, especially the referees and score keepers, the Red Cross, St Benedict's School, Fairways and the sponsors.