POLICE have joined pupils to organise a five-a-side football tournament.

Police in Bedale have teamed up with Bedale High School for the tournament, which will be played next month, on Bedale Leisure Centre's all-weather pitch.

It is open to male and female teams in the 11 to 13, 14 to 16 and 17 to 19 age groups. Entry is free and prizes for the winning teams include a trophy, individual medals and a paint-balling session.

The idea for the event came from neighbourhood police officer Peter Taylforth, who thought it was an ideal way to capture young people's interest and foster relations between the police and the community.

He organised the event with the school's PE teacher, Phil Tuplin.

PC Taylforth said: "Myself and Mr Tuplin are extremely grateful for the kind support we have received from the local companies and the county council.

"We've had a great deal of interest from the youngsters already, but it's important that they come forward as soon as possible to register their teams."

The event will run from 10am to 8.30pm, on August 13 and 14.