Housing association, bpha, is partnering with the Bedfordshire & Luton Fire & Rescue Service, the University of Bedfordshire, the Bedford Refugee and Asylum Seeker Support (BRASS) and Yarl’s Wood Befrienders to deliver a over 16s football tournament as part of Refugee Week, which runs 20-26 June.

The five a side tournament, which is being held for the fourth year in a row, is open to all, over the age of 16, wishing to enter.

The tournament itself will kick off on 26 June at 1:30pm, and registration for teams will be held at Alexander Sports Centre of the University of Bedfordshire from 1pm.

With a guaranteed four games on the day for all participants and a trophy on offer at the end, the tournament organisers are hoping to attract a wide range of people. 

Bob Bridle, the Community Development Officer at bpha who is the contact for the organisation of the event, said that friends and families are also welcome to come along to the day.

“We want this to be a family event and we’ve organised plenty of games and entertainment for children. The venue, at the University of Bedfordshire, also provides plenty of room to sit and watch the games while having a picnic,” he said.

“The tournament and activities are all designed to appeal to a broad range of people, so we’re inviting everyone to come along and, while they’re there, learn a little more about the lives of refugees.”

Mr Bridle said that all teams interested in entering should contact him to register by Friday 17 June.

“While we’re happy to try to accommodate people on the day, we’d like people to register their teams before the day. This will ensure we provide enough refreshments for players on the day and mean that everyone gets a game.”

For more information or to register a team, contact Bob Bridle on 0330 100 0272.