GOLBORNE High School's newly laid astroturf pitch and Fairdeal Footballs were put to the test at a successful six-a-side soccer tournament.

Around 50 youngsters aged 10-14 gathered to play in mini matches organised by Wigan Borough Co-op Members Fairtrade Group to help put their message across.

Two teams from Christ Church, Pennington, the Raiders and the Warriors, two from Lowton Scouts, and four sides made up of keen local youngsters battled for glory.

The winning team of Mark Hindley, Matthew Hughes, Matthew Burrows, Jake Fletcher and Liam Scholfield from Golborne High School and Connor Fitzmartin from Lowton J and I School were presented with certificates signed by Andy Burnham MP and a trophy by the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr John Hilton.

The Fairtrade Fair was also visited by Lord Peter Smith.

The mixed teams played with balls which are stitched in Pakistan and carry a "no child labour" guarantee. The event was funded mainly by United Co-Op, who sell fairly traded products in their stores. Asda also supplied the players with free Fairtrade juice.

Julie Dennis of the Wigan Borough Fairtrade Group said: "We wanted to organise an event which would involve local youngsters and at the same time raise awareness of the importance of Fairtrade. Football seemed an ideal way to bring the message across."

Visiting speaker, Chris Worrall from Oxfam, gave a talk on how much Fairtrade helps the developing world by giving small scale farmers guaranteed prices for their crops.

For more information call Mary Waterworth on 01942 672699 or email carolineshevelan@blueyonder.co.uk.