SOCCER-MAD youngsters are starting the new season in style after being kitted out by a school caterer.

Scolarest is the new sponsor of the under-11 boys' team at Lumley Junior School, Great Lumley, Chester-le-Street.

The team, which plays in the Chester-le-Street Schools League, recently reached the district finals of the English Schools' Football Association seven-a-side competition, finishing second on goal difference.

Headteacher Jim Birleson said: "The boys are most appreciative of their new strip and the sponsorship represents a further development of our relationship with Scolarest. Promotion of the healthy schools agenda remains high on our priorities, our work being recognised recently by the National Healthy School and Activemark awards."

Scolarest operations manager Terry Tyson said: "We're delighted to be supporting the boys at Lumley Junior, and hope they have a great season.

"Being active and eating well are a vital part of staying healthy so it's really important that we encourage youngsters to enjoy physical activity and sport."