HUNDREDS of youngsters struck for gold in Ringwood Town's football tournament.

The two-day event at Long Lane proved to be another hit, with more than 100 teams, comprising 700 footballers, taking to the field.

From under-6s to 16s, sides from Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Wimborne were in full force.

A bumper crowd just shy of 1,000 backed the event, which sparked an electric atmosphere.

Organiser Chris Till, vice-chairman of Ringwood, said: "To have held our annual tournament at our Long Lane venue enabled us to invite more teams this year – which was an unrivalled success.

"The feedback we had from young players and managers involved was that they enjoyed a well-organised and fun event.

"We have grown over the years and now have more than 20 youth teams ranging from the new under-5s through to the under-18s."

Town say they have plans to expand their training facilities with the introduction of a 3G all-weather surface pitch.

Till added: "What we now need to do is ensure we press on with our plans with Ringwood Town Council to get our much-needed 3G playing and training surface and the new – less leaky – clubhouse for all to enjoy!

"I would like to thank all the many managers, coaches, committee members and parents that gave up their time freely to help us host this festival of football – and also the many teams that came from far and wide to get involved in football at Ringwood Town FC.

For more information, visit www.ringwoodtownfc.co.uk.