DEAN of Ripon Cathedral John Metheun was shown a red and a yellow card when he made his debut at a motorised soccer game.

The church leader gave his holy blessing to the venture - spreading blessed waters in the penalty area at a former bus depot, at Ripon, before trying the game himself.

The sporty Dean went on to score a hat-trick for his cathedral side - but they were edged out by a team from the Royal Engineers from Ripon's Claro Barracks.

Launch of the new venture - which sees players take to the pitch in electronically-operated karts - has ended an 18-month battle by owners for planning permission.

The firm behind the Football Fun venture is Econ Engineering, of Boroughbridge Road, Ripon, better known for their manufacture of road gritters.

It has arranged through the Dean for a group of needy youngsters to take over the stadium - created in the former United Automobile bus company depot in Park Street, near the city centre - for a free game.

The venture is being managed by Susan Dennison, chairman of Ripon City Football Club.