Youths take on the police! (From Barry And District News)

Youths take on the police!

THIS was a hard-fought match aimed not only at raising money for children's hospice Ty Hafan, but also at building bridges between young people locally and the police. The police scored first, followed by an equaliser from Barry Comprehensive, taking the match to sudden death penalties.

Eventually the police emerged as winners.

Superintendent Sue Hayes was on hand to present the trophy at the end of the entertaining afternoon.

The school held a collection and presented a cheque for £250 for Ty Hafan.

The fixture was organised by PC Justin Hardwick, who would like to see the return of the old community feeling between police and the public.

He said: "The aim of the event was to get the police and community working together, so we could engage with younger members of the community in a neutral environment that they could relate to."

Although played in fun, the match had all the elements of a real tie, with Sgt Rob Davidson getting sent off and another officer sustaining a thick lip!

Team captain for the police, Paul Francis, said: "It was a wonderful game - we were spurred on by the crowd."

Watched by year 8 pupils, the fans helped bring atmosphere to the game by cheering the teams on.

Mark Hutton, PE teacher at Barry Comprehensive said: "We are disappointed to lose, but it was all for a good cause at the end of the day."

Vale Divisional Commander Superintendent Sue Hayes said: "I think it's been excellent. It's in areas like sport where we can break barriers down and the perception that people might have about the police, and vice versa."

Police officers gave their time, voluntarily showing their commitment to PACT - Police and the Community working together.

The Neighbourhood Watch Association and Safer Vale Partnership, who sponsored the event, generously donated the police kit, raffle prize and trophy.

On the police team's performance, Superintendent Hayes added: "I think they tried really hard. I think they were up against a very strong team of young, fit and energetic players and they held on heroically."

This is the first year that the event has taken place, but PC Hardwick would like to see other public services become involved next year and also more schools. He said: "I have to say thanks to the Neighbourhood Watch for donating the kit to the players and for supporting the event with a trophy that will be played for year after year."

A school spokesperson said: "The school team is looking forward to a re-match and hope that game will become an annual event."