IT is the fastest growing women's sport in Britain - but ladies in Bolton are just not playing ball.

Only one team is limbering up to compete in a new five-a-side football league at the Bolton Arena.

And the lack of interest in the women's league has prompted the recently-formed Flaming Noras to appeal for more ladies to lace up their boots and give them a game.

The outfit, who come from Deane, Westhoughton and Over Hulton, were put through their paces this week during the team's first training session.

Team member Nikki Simpson said: "We are just getting used to the ball first of all. We did some simple passing and shooting, nothing more complicated than that.

"Our team looks very non-threatening, so if other women saw us, I'm sure they would be prepared to take us on."

The league is starting on August 30 for a seven-week trial period before it begins in earnest from September.

The Flaming Noras mix youth with experience with the players' ages ranging from 20 to 43.

Nikki said: "I was a bit dubious when I saw the rain teeming down before training outside, but fortunately it cleared up. Everyone pretended they were doing it under duress but they really enjoyed it."

The players are also getting to grips with the easy rules of five-a-side football.

"Because there's no balls over head height, we don't have to worry about heading," said Nikki, "and it would be a nightmare having to play the offside rule of the 11-a-side game."

The women are already coming up with ideas of how to foster that all-important team spirit.

Nikki said: "The team is great for the social side too. We are already planning our first girl's night out.

"Going to the gym a few times a week is all very well - but football is much more fun."

Simon Sharrock, operations manager at Bolton Arena, said: "The response so far has been very lukewarm. It's surprising because women's football is definitely on the up and it's something we want to promote.

"I'd call on any women who want to get fit and enjoy themselves to get in touch."

The matches could take place on a Friday or a Sunday. For more information or to register, call Bolton Arena on 488 100.