FOUR members of Rovers' first-team squad - Chris Samba, Johann Vogel, Marcus Marshall and Bryan Hodge - were invited to celebrate the achievements of attendees of after-schools programmes at Ewood Park.

Such is the popularity of the event, which is organised by the Community Trust's Education Department, that two separate evenings, each attended by over 300 pupils, parents and link teachers, had to be held earlier this week.

Providing young people with the chance to experience a wide range of imaginative learning activities in a stimulating environment, an increasing number of learners from schools, colleges and community organisations throughout Lancashire and beyond benefit each year from participation in the wide range of programmes the department offers.

Hodge and Vogel give out awards

The Rovers quartet were on hand to present awards to youngsters from within Blackburn and Darwen who participated in the Playing for Success, Pitching In, On Side, Double Club, Game On, Goal and Your Goal initiatives.

Along with certificates, major prize-winners each received footballs and shirts signed by the first team squad - with others receiving Blackburn Rovers branded stationary and matchday tickets to reward their learning achievements.