FORBES Solicitors has become the first local firm to pump money into a scheme to promote grass roots sports.

The firm, which has offices throughout East Lancashire, has once again put up £1,000 sponsorship for the Forbes Blacksnape soccer tournament.

And, thanks to a Government programme, £1,000 of matched funding will be made available to Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council which is organising the tournament, which will be held on Blacksnape playing fields on August 25 and 26.

Organiser Graham Harris said the funding through Sports Match would help greatly with the tournament which has grown tremendously in the three years it has been running.

"There will be 100 teams taking part in the competition which has attracted entries from all over the North West," said Graham.

Michael Blacklidge, a partner in Forbes Solicitors, said the firm supports several sports through sponsorship as part of its commitment to the community.

"I am delighted that our sponsorship of the Blacksnape tournament has levered in government funding," said Mr Blacklidge.

Sports Match is designed to encourage local companies to get involved in sport of all kinds and will provide matched funding of up to £40,000.

Blackburn MP and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw helped to kick off the new initiative on the steps of Blackburn Town Hall.