Budding Croydon footballers can play in a free tournament in Crystal Palace this weekend. 

The Croydon Cohesion Tournament, organised by the Council, police and Palace for Life Foundation, invites 11-16-year-olds to take part in a day of six-a-side competition at Crystal Palace Sports arena on Saturday.

Running from 11am-3pm, the event aims to "unite Croydon against serious youth violence", supporting young people by getting them in touch with community organisations.

Councillor Hamida Ali, cabinet member for safer Croydon and communities, said: “This tournament is a great opportunity for young people to come together and enjoy sport.

“It’s also a chance for the council’s youth engagement team and partners to share the wide range of events, training and support available to the young people in our borough.”

The tournament will be attended by Croydon police, the police cadets, Reaching Higher, an organisation that seeks to support and inspire young people, and Victim Support, who will share advice on staying safe, knowing your rights and information tailored to young people’s specific needs.

There will also be live music with young DJs who completed Palace for Life’s music workshop and are now using their skills to entertain around the borough.

An elite specialist arena will also be set up to help the youngsters develop their football skills.

Every young person attending the event will receive a medal, with a special medal and prize for the winning team. All are welcome.

To sign up and secure a place email jamiebroughton@palaceforlife.org, or call 07808 322 954.