YOUNG footballers from Richmond have beaten teams from eight countries to lift the winners' trophy in a European tournament.

Players from Richmond School travelled to Italy during the Easter holidays and returned with two cups after a resounding success.

A total of 45 boys, aged 13 to 17, spent a week at the Milan football festival, which attracted 60 teams from across Europe.

The three teams played a total of 14 matches and the youngest side went on to win the overall trophy, beating Inter Milan's academy team in the semi-final and another Milan team in the final.

The school also produced two "men of the tournament" - Stephen Walker, chosen as top goalkeeper, and Nathan Fisher, best outfield player.

The final was played at Inter Milan's former stadium, which seats 20,000.

Teacher Andrew Mollitt said: "We have sent a team to the festival for the last five years, but we have never before won it. They did extremely well and hope to go back next year to repeat the success."

The winning team has been invited to meet Middlesbrough's Brazilian World Cup winner Juninho when he officially opens business units on the Aske estate, near Richmond, next week.

"I think they are more excited about meeting Juninho than they are about winning the Milan festival," said Mr Mollitt.