ST James’ CE School and Sports College (Bolton) are through to the last 32 of the ESFA Under-12s Danone Nations Schools’ Cup.

The local youngsters have hit top form in the national inter-school knockout cup and they have now have a tough away trip to Heckmondwike Grammar School (Spen Valley) in round six of the prestigious competition.

The U12s began their quest for national honours with a narrow 1-0 first round win against Manchester Academy (Manchester) before running out 2-1 victors against Chesterfield High School Specialist Sports College (Sefton) in a tense second round match.

A thrilling 5-3 extra-time victory against Weaverham High School (Mid Cheshire) followed in round three before a more comfortable 3-1 win against Winsford Federation (Mid Cheshire) eased them through to round five.

That fifth round clash proved to be another close encounter with St James’ eventually running out 2-1 winners against Ashton on Mersey School (Trafford) thanks to an Alogba brace.

The local lads will be hoping for another winning performance against Heckmondwike Grammar School in round six with a place in the last 16 at stake in a competition which originally attracted 701 entries.

Bury U15s’ Inter Association Trophy fifth round clash against Tameside, postponed for the last fortnight due to the snow, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, kick off 10.30am.