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

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

It is the second year the competition 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.

"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 be able to play for six weeks and need to register by January 5.

However, the number of places is limited and teams will be accepted on a first come first serve basis.

The cost of taking part is £30 per team per game. However, teams will be able to play for free if they attend an educational session before the game.

Among the subjects will be help on how to stop smoking, healthy eating and advice on jobs and further education.

Anyone interested in entering the league or wanting more information can contact Adam Nugent on 01282 664422 or email anugent@burnley.gov.uk.