A FOOTBALL competition which offers a chance to play football internationally is to kick-off.

Leisure Leagues will be launching their new competition at Dowdales School in Dalton next month.

And the best players and referees get the chance to represent their countries at the six-a-side World Cup.

Organisers say that the sport is brilliant for both mental and physical health and have teamed up with Dowdales to use their 3G pitch.

They are also looking for referees for the games with experience 'not essential'.

They claim that a 30-minute game burns as many calories as double that amount of time in the gym.

Leisure Leagues are a not-for-profit organisation committed to getting as many local communities across the UK involved with the game as possible.

The league will take place on Mondays from 7.00-9.00pm and they promise guaranteed games against different opposition each week.

Ben Schumann, of Leisure Leagues, said: "Our not-for-profit community leagues offer footballers and referees of all standards and experience the opportunity to get involved with the small-sided game and compete for once-in-a-lifetime incentives.

"We offer the opportunity to represent their countries in the Six a Side World and emulate their favourite professional teams by playing in our National Tournament. Small-sided football is fantastic for both physical and mental wellbeing, with one 30-minute game proven to burn as many calories as an hour in the gym.

"All of our leagues also offer local employment opportunities to referees and supervisors and experience isn't even essential as we offer a full induction package and free kit worth £250."

The league will be five-a-side with up to three substitutions and 'the best referees in town'.

It also offers online fixtures and league tables, with top scorers and MVPs.

To sign up, visit this website.