Big kick off for care leavers

Young people from Blackburn and Darwen took part in the annual North West Leaving Care Football Tournament.

The tournament celebrates young people aged between 16 and 21 who have been in care across the region and took place at Witton Astroturf in Backburn.

Organised by Blackburn with Darwen’s Leaving Care Team, the tournament hosted nine teams from across the North West and was won by the team from the Wirral. Blackburn with Darwen’s team scooped the runners-up trophy.

Becky McPartlan from the Leaving Care team trains Blackburn with Darwen’s team with help from apprentice Anthony Oliver based in Adults Services and support from Mike Katon from Fenicowles and Pleasington Junior Football Club.

The standard of play has been unbelievable and thanks to everyone involved. The spirit shown has been amazing.”

Skylakes, who are currently supporting social services, sponsored the event by donating the kit.

Councillor Maureen Bateson, Executive member for Children’s Services, cheered on the youngsters as they played. She said:

This is a wonderful annual tournament and is always really fun for the young people and all the spectators.

“It is a really great way to mark the youngsters leaving our care and embarking on the next phase of their lives. This is a brilliant initiative and I want to thank the Leaving Care team and all the young people that took part.”