Hundreds of young people took to the pitch at an action-packed grassroots football tournament and family fun day that brought communities together from across Nottinghamshire.

Nottinghamshire Police's annual Community Kicks event returned to David Ross Sports Village at the University of Nottingham on Sunday, July 12, for an unforgettable day of sport.

More than 500 young players representing 48 teams took to the pitches, battling it out to be crowned champions of their age category.

Designed to create opportunities for young people and strengthen community relationships with the police, Community Kicks once again delivered a fantastic day of engagement.

Hundreds of young people took to the pitch at an action-packed grassroots football tournament and family fun day that brought communities together from across Nottinghamshire

placeholder image — Hundreds of young people took to the pitch at an action-packed grassroots football tournament and family fun day that brought communities together from across Nottinghamshire

Teams of boys, girls, and mixed groups aged between ten and 14-years-old played dozens of seven-a-side matches before a knockout stage crowned the eventual champions.

Off the pitch, families enjoyed a festival of free activities and entertainment.

Visitors put their shooting accuracy to the test with the football dartboard, clambered aboard emergency service vehicles, and even learned a range of circus skills.

Keeping young people safe remains the key message at the heart of Community Kicks, with educational activities including a safeguarding-themed escape room and age-appropriate virtual-reality knife-crime awareness sessions.

Inspector Paul Peatfield, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Community Kicks continues to go from strength to strength and this year's tournament has been the best yet.

“Sport has the unique ability to inspire positive change among communities and provide opportunities both on and off the pitch.

“Bringing communities and young people closer together is crucial so that everyone feels confident approaching us with their concerns.

“It's really rewarding to see first-hand how everyone has embraced this event, making it much more than just a football tournament.

“The atmosphere throughout the day was fantastic, with families and friends cheering on their loved ones, and an estimated 2,000 people attending.

“I would also like to thank all of our guests, teams, and coaches for taking part, and our partners and sponsors, without whom this event simply would not have been possible.”