AMATEUR teams have been warned not to arrange or play friendly games after reports that unauthorised matches were played on two locked Blackburn school causing damage

It said such gatherings contravene local measures imposed by the government and are not permitted.

The warning has been underlined by Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Cllr Mohammed Khan.

The complaints followed groups gathering and football matches being played on the locked Witton 3G pitches and Pleckgate playing fields, without permission from the schools and causing damage.

Clubs from outside this borough are also asked to decline any invitations to play friendly matches with Blackburn and Darwen clubs.

Cllr Khan said: "It is important that we all follow the local restrictions that are in place in Blackburn with Darwen because we are an area of high risk. We all need to work together and do the right thing to defeat this virus and protect vulnerable members of our communities.”

Jo Siddle, head of education at Blackburn with Darwen Council said: "Playing football games is not permitted on any school playing fields. Damage has been caused by the recent games and that is not acceptable.”

The Lancashire Football Association said: "It is critical that clubs fully brief all coaches to ensure that the guidelines are strictly adhered to at all times, with robust hygiene standards and registration of attendees, so football can make a positive contribution to preventing further lockdown measures in those areas.”