THE first ever Malvern Hills District Hockey tournament took place at The Chase school's community-use Astro-Turf Pitch on Sunday.

Three teams took part in the tournament to hold the title of 'Best team in the District'.

The tournament was open to mixed teams aged 11-14, and funded through the Active Sports Programme.

Malvern Hockey Club, The Chase school and Dyson Perrins High School all entered teams.

The first game saw Malvern Hockey Club play Dyson Perrins High School. Malvern quickly took the game to Dyson Perrins HS scoring six goals in the first half with no reply, a hat-trick of goals coming from Malvern's newest signing Katie Smith. Two goals from in-form striker John Forecast and one from Mike Braim made the six.

In the second half Dyson Perrins solidified their defence and attacked with a renewed passion, but with no avail. Malvern were able to score two further goals in the second half. Final score, 8-0 to Malvern.

The second game saw The Chase school taking on Malvern Hockey Club. In a more balanced game, both teams fought hard to gain the all-important edge and win the match. Malvern ended up as eventual winners with a 3-1 scoreline, John Forecast and Mike Braim both scoring for the second game in a row.

In the final game of the group stage of the tournament, The Chase school took on Dyson Perrins High School to decide who would play Malvern Hockey Club in the final. The Chase school took the initiative, with David Tuck scoring a hat trick of spectacular goals.

This set-up a final match of Malvern Hockey Club versus The Chase school. An extra 15 minutes was added to each half in the final to test the skill and stamina of both teams.

In an end to end game it was Malvern Hockey Club who ended up as eventual winners by the score of 4-1.

John Forecast continued his impressive scoring run by adding a further two goals to his account. Iska Lupton scored the Chase school's goal.

This made John the tournament's top-scorer with five goals in only three games, followed closely by Malvern's newest member, Katie Smith, with four goals.

Simon Rusling, sport and recreation officer for Malvern Hills DC, said: "The whole experience was brilliant for everyone involved. It was a credit to all participants, coaches, referees and parents who helped on the day. I hope that the event will grow year on year."