Lifestyle 2008

Football got nearly 1,000 children off the streets and onto the pitch at the weekend.

Youngsters from across North East Lincolnshire took part in the Lifestyle Football Festival, with 86 football teams heading down to Bradley Pitches on Saturday. The day marked the 20th anniversary of Humberside Police's Operation Lifestyle project, but also brought together young people from the Fair Play league and other football teams from across the borough.

The tournament scoring was based on the Fair Play league, with teams rewarded for good sportsmanship and no bad behaviour.

Hayden Westerman (15), of the East Marsh team, which regularly plays in the Fair Play league, said: "I would probably have an ASBO if I didn't take part in the Fair Play league.

"It means that we get on with people who we wouldn't normally have met, like some of the lads from Immingham, and it is good fun."

Pc Paul Caswell of Humberside Police said: "There are people from all over North East Lincolnshire taking part. The day celebrates the anniversary of Lifestyle, but also tries to reduce anti-social behaviour and youth boredom."

The tournament was watched by Mark Blake, the national director for positive futures at Crime Concern, a program by the Home Office.He said: "I see how things are nationally, so it is great to see what is happening at a local level. "What is happening here is fantastic."

Jonathan Westerman (18) is one of 12 young people who have passed a level one Football Association training qualification.He now manages the East Marsh team and is studying for his GCSEs at the Grimsby Institute.He said: "I think the tournament is spot on. First I started playing for the team and then I thought I would have a go at coaching. "If I wasn't doing this, I would probably just be laid in bed."

Callum Joensen (14), of the Matthew Humberstone team, said: "I think it is really good. This stops me from being out on the streets."

Mark Cullum, development manager for NELC sports and arts development, said: "It is a celebration and the culmination of the hard work Sports Lincs have put in over the last year, and to celebrate Lifestyle's 20th anniversary.

"It is really important to have events like this because when we consult with young people they always tell us they want more things to do."

Graham Rodger, of Grimsby Town Football in the Community sport and education trust, said: "Football is a diversionary activity that teaches them teamwork, respect, and gives them something to do."