A WORLDWIDE audience of hundreds of millions watched the FA Cup Final at the weekend.

The competition is still the centrepiece of the multi million pound professional English game and is regarded highly all over the world.

Year by year though, with the divide between players and spectators growing, it is losing its romance factor, as players are earning in a week more than an average family in a year.

All this thankfully took a back seat in Bolton though, as for the third year running Wanderers opened up the Reebok stadium and played host to grass root football.

Thousands of spectators turned up to watch around 200 children from six to 11 take centre stage on the hallow turf for the Cup Finals Day of The Bolton, Bury and District Mini Soccer League.

In its infancy five years ago, the League attracted around 30 teams. It has now grown to over a 170 teams and is expanding every year. The forthcoming season will see the League increase the girls section to four age groups, from U10 to U13 and also will see the League incorporate Eleven-a-Side football for the first time to give players, parents and clubs the choice of when they play.

The finals day attracted 20 teams from 15 different clubs based in Bolton and other local boroughs for the Chairman and Player's Cup Finals.

John Haworth, Wanderers' Chief Youth Scout, said: "This is a wonderful day for all the children taking part, and Bolton Wanderers will continue to support grass route football with local Leagues wherever possible."

Any team interested in joining the League can call Bill Eaton on 01204 432401.