A LATE night football league aimed at giving the red card to anti-social behaviour will kick off in Burnley next month.

The Midnight Football League has been organised by Burnley Council and community groups to try to reduce vandalism and teen nuisance in the evenings - when most trouble occurs.

It is the second year the pioneering competition, backed by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, will be held after last year's tournament proved popular.

Waheed Rashid, the council's youth engagement officer, said: "The midnight football league is a great opportunity for the young people. The more opportunities like this means there are less bored young people hanging around our streets.

"Initiatives like this contribute to reducing anti-social behaviour and allow us to help young people improve their lives in the short and long term."

The five-a-side competition is being organised by the council, Burnley FC and the Prince's Trust. It will be open to 16 to 25-year-olds and will start on January 12 at Burnley FC's indoor sports hall.

Teams, which can have up to eight squad members, have to able to play for six weeks and need to register by January 5. However, places are limited and teams will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. The cost is £30 per team per game but free if players attend an educational session before the game.

Among the subjects will be help on stopping smoking, healthy eating and job and further education advice.

Adam Nugent, the council's community football development officer, said: "There are a number of young people that might be lacking direction and given the opportunities will be able to realise their potential."

For more informa contact Adam Nugent on 01282 664422 or email anugent@burnley.gov.uk.