PRIMARY school pupils are celebrating after winning a girls-only Coca-Cola football challenge.

The youngsters, from Lingdale Primary School, Guisborough, have emerged victorious from the competition, which is held bi-annually at Middlesbrough Football Community Centre.

The Coca-Cola sponsored competition saw 24 teams from across the area, with Lingdale winning in extra-time against Rosewood School.

Lingdale's route to victory included topping their group in the league stages, taking 11 points from a possible 15, winning their quarter-final, and then winning with a last-second goal in the semi-final against a tough side from Crooksbarn school.

As a reward for their efforts, each member of the winning team received a football and a medal, as well as a behind-the-scenes tour of Middlesbrough Football Club's Rockliffe Park training headquarters in Hurworth.

Girls' development co-ordinator John Clubb said: "The event has again proved hugely successful.

"It is attracting a larger number of teams each time it is held, which can only be good for girls football."

The competition has been won by a different school each time, indicating that more schools are encouraging girls to play football.

For details on football for girls, call (01642) 282128