The FA's Three Lions - Roary, Mayne and Pauz - were a big hit in Bedfordshire.
Monday, 03 July 2006.
England's participation might be over, but the World Cup is still going strong in this country, thanks to the Bedfordshire FA.
On Saturday, just before England's quarter-final with Portugal, more than 800 youngsters took part in the county’s 'Fair Play' Festival at Flitwick Leisure Centre.
The event, which was hosted by Flitwick Eagles, saw teams from all over the county from under-seven to under-11 taking part. There was also a girls' section for under-tens to under-14s and a disability category.
In a bid to encourage good sportsmanship, teams scored points on the behaviour of their coaches, managers, spectators and players.
In blazing hot weather, the boys and girls had a great time playing their matches and enjoying the inflatable practice areas and pitch supplied by FA Community Sponsors McDonalds, while the adidas roadshow allowed players to try the latest footwear and show their skills.
The FA's Three Lions Roary, Mayne and Pauz entertained the crowds, but the highlight of the day was the presence of the FA Cup and FA Community Shield.
Many took the chance to have their picture taken with the two trophies, with the profits from the photographs donated to Keech Cottage Children's Hospice.
Winners of the Fairplay awards were:
Boys:
Under 7: Flitwick Eagles
Under 8: Houghton Wanderers
Under 9: Clipstone Brook Lower School
Under 10: Leighton United
Under 11: Luton Leagrave B
Girls:
Under 10: Flitwick Eagles
Under 12: Cranfield Colts
Under 14: Leighton United Tied with Bedford & District Girls
If you would like more information on how you can 'Get into Football', contact the Bedfordshire FA development team on 01582 565111.