THE England team may well be focusing on winning the World Cup but pupils from across Blackburn with Darwen have their thoughts on their own soccer showpiece.

While Beckham and the boys have been carrying the hopes of the nation in Germany, girls and boys from the borough's nine high schools have been taking part in a mini football league.

The league, organised by Blackburn with Darwen Council's school sports partnership department, has been designed to boost children's self esteem and allow children who would not normally represent their school at sport to take part.

Each school was asked to pick a handful of players who fitted the bill before organisers paired them with another participating school.

Organisers tried to twin schools with varying cultures and backgrounds so pupils had a chance to mix and forge new friendships.

For the past few weeks two leagues split into boys and girls - have been up and running on the astro turf at Witton Park, Blackburn.

And on Monday, the winners of both contests will be unveiled after the teams battle it out in the final fixtures of the tournament.

Jo Bateson, the council's school sports co-ordinator said the event had proved a winner.

"The event really helps children with their self esteem. Not everyone makes makes the team and this event targets people who would not normally represent their school."

She added: "The teams have been paired up to promote community cohesion and allow pupils to mix and forge new friendships."

The overall winners will be presented with a trophy and medals and certificates. Prizes will also be given to participants who have shown particular motivation, fair play and achievement.

The council has set up the event as part of its commitment to the National Lottery's Everyday Sport campaign designed to show how you can get active and enjoy the benefits without disrupting your busy lives.

The teams involved are: Boys Beardwood High School, Blackburn / Our Lady and St John Catholic Arts College, Blackburn.

Pleckgate High School, Mathematics and Computing College, Blackburn / St Bede's RC High School and Specialist Sport College, Blackburn. St.Wilfrid's CE High School and Technology College, Blackburn / Witton Park High School Business and Enterprise College, Blackburn. Darwen Moorland High School and Blakewater College, Blackburn.

Girls Our Lady and St John Catholic Arts College / Darwen Vale High School. Witton Park High School Business and Enterprise College / Beard-wood High School. Pleckgate High School / St Bede's RC High School and Specialist Sport College.