A GIRLS football tournament is returning to Leasowe for its third season.

On Saturday, August 31 more than 320 girls from 28 grassroots teams across Merseyside will come together for the annual Leasowe Girls Football Tournament.

The tournament, which is now in its third season, will see 59 matches played across the day.

Its aim is to create a safe space for young girls to play and enjoy football, whilst increasing their confidence, developing teamwork and experiencing something really positive.

Supported by sporting partners including Everton in the Community and LFC Foundation, plus St John Ambulance who will deliver first aid workshops, and Merseyside Youth Association who will be on hand to offer life-changing opportunities and mental health support for young people.

Dale Davies, Football Development Lead for Everton in the Community said: "We're looking forward to the return of the annual Leasowe Girls Football Tournament.

"It's such a fantastic event that helps to inspire and raise aspirations for young females across Merseyside and we're thrilled to be a part of the project for the third year running."

The project has evolved from work by Constable Claire Ryan from Merseyside Police’s Wirral Community Team with the aim of creating safer communities and greater opportunities for young people who live and work in them.

Constable Claire Ryan, Wallasey Community Team, said: “I’m so proud to be involved in this tournament and see firsthand how the girls embrace the opportunity in front of them.

“Positive activities like this are crucial in increasing the girls’ confidence, developing teamwork and more importantly having fun with their peers.

“Merseyside Police is committed to working with our partners and communities and the Leasowe Girls Football Tournament is a great example of what can be achieved when working together, making it much more than a sporting event.”