A NEW female football club has been established to cater for a surge in the sport's popularity among women and girls.

Lumley Ladies FC offers regular training and coaching, and the chance to play in Durham Football Association tournaments and local leagues, for girls and women aged eight and above.

The club, based at Park View Community School, in Chester-le-Street, holds sessions every Thursday, from 6.15pm to 8pm, and is currently conducting summer training aimed at being more fun than pre-season, which focuses more on coaching and fitness.

A club spokesman said: "Our aim is to have a safe, secure and friendly environment in which girls can train and develop their football skills and friendships.

"We have qualified coaches with many years' experience and a proven track record of success."

For more information, contact Mark Lumsdon, the juniors manager, on 0191-388 7930, Owen Temple, the seniors manager, on 0191-389 0374, or secretary Dennis Price, on 0191-389 4494.