ANTI-racism flags were handed out to fans at the Manchester United v Wanderers match on Saturday as part of a nationwide bid to kick into touch racism in soccer.

Bolton West MP Ruth Kelly has pledged her support to end racism in football. Hundreds of clubs, schools and community groups are expected to tackle the problem with a week of activities to highlight the anti-racism campaign.

And at Saturday's match at Old Trafford, the flags were handed out before the game and all players warmed up in anti-racism T-shirts.

Ms Kelly, said: "I am delighted with the response to this campaign from football clubs, schools and other organisations who are standing together against racism.

"It is unbelievable that racism exists in this day and age -- especially in football, where many of the best players in the premier league are from abroad.

"The sheer volume of support from those involved in the game highlights football's opposition to racism."

The campaign was launched in 1993 by the Commission for Racial Equality to remove racism from the terraces.