BOLTON Arena is launching its new five-a-side pitches on Saturday, September 11.

An open weekend at the Middlebrook centre will offer local schools the chance to try out the football fives facility with coaching sessions and games.

Mayor of Bolton Cllr Prentice Howarth will officially open the four synthetic Field Tech pitches at 1pm.

The Football Fives Challenge Cup Knockout Tournament will take place between 1-4pm on the Sunday, with 16 teams competing to win the first of what is hoped to become an annual event.

The tournament is free to enter on a first come, first served basis.

For details contact the Arena on 01204 488100. The pitches will be available for free public use from 4pm on the Saturday and Sunday.