Around 240 boys and girls star in legendary football tournament at Lancaster FC

Boys and girls' teams from primary schools across North Lancashire have starred in a historic football tournament held at Lancaster City FC.

The 2024 Easter Field Festival returned on Saturday following huge success in 2023, which was the first time in years that it had taken place at The Giant Axe.

First held in 1892 at Lancaster City’s football ground - the event was the brainchild of philanthropist and former Mayor, William Smith. The tournament was revived at Giant Axe in 2023.

Hundreds turned out to see a jam-packed day of football and other family activities at this year's event.

Multiple games were taking place at once for most of the day as the Giant Axe pitch was split into four mini pitches.

Bolton-le-Sands Primary School were champions of the boys' competition for the first time in their history - their A Team won, while their B Team finished joint third along with Moorside.

Halton St Wilfrid’s Primary School finished second.

Bowerham were victorious in the girls tournament, beating St Bernadette’s in the final. 

Moorside and Willow Lane finished third and fourth respectively. 

Bolton-le-Sands Primary School posted on their Facebook: “An amazing string of performances from the BLS Blues who were outstanding all afternoon remaining undefeated throughout the tournament only conceding two goals. 

“Your victory was a well deserved one, against an excellent Halton St Wilfred’s after a nervy penalty shoot out. 

“Tom L, Mark R, Nate H, Olly R, Evan R, Ethan H, Bobby W & Ed B congratulations to you all.”

Bowerham Primary School posted on their Facebook: “A fantastic day at Easter Field for Bowerham girls who were crowned the 2024 CHAMPIONS today!

“Incredible effort and attitudes from each of them throughout each game, encouraging each other every step of the way. A huge well done from all the Bowerham Family.”

Mark Cheal from Moorside, who also played a big part in organising the event both on the day and beforehand, spoke to Beyond Radio on Saturday. 

“There are about 140 boys and 100 girls [on the pitch], they’ve all played at least three games," said Mark.

“There has been close games, excitement, fantastic goals. 

“It’s a lovely day and the sun’s out!

“The highlight of the day has been seeing former Lancaster managers and coaches who are here supporting, junior managers who’ve come along and coached me 30 or 40 years ago, they’re coming over and shaking hands. 

“Everyone is having a wonderful time.”