A Rovers Under-16 boys team were given the opportunity of a lifetime when they took part in the national finals of a Kickz tournament held at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge.

The event saw young people from challenging communities across the country unite behind a Government anti-knife crime campaign, entitled 'It Doesn't Have to Happen'.

The Rovers team, who participate in the award-winning Kickz project at Darwen Vale, booked their trip to the capital after winning the regional heats held at the club's Academy.

Victories over Aston Villa, Sheffield United and Fulham saw Rovers top their group, but they were eliminated at the semi-final stage following a 2-0 defeat to the eventual winners Barnet.

The Blackburn Rovers Kickz project takes place at Darwen Vale and Bastwell on Thursday and Friday nights. For more information, please contact Blackburn Rovers Community Trust Coaching Department on 01254 296256