HOMELESS people in Southampton were encouraged to kick street life into touch at a football tournament.

More than 80 players took part in the five-a-side competition in at the city's Sports Centre.

It was organised by The Street Homeless Prevention Service, which is funded by the city council to support homeless people and ensure that they do not need to sleep rough.

The competition was the culmination of regular fortnightly football games that have proved popular among homeless people.

Julie Stoop, from the service, said: "Volunteers, the homeless players are able to come away with a positive frame of mind.

"After the matches rough sleepers are much more positive about dealing with their issues and changing their lives for the better."

Nick Murphy, from the city council, who acted as referee, said: "The football sessions are a really innovative way of engaging with rough sleepers, and are proving successful.

"Anything that enables us to help these people to help themselves is good news."

Mayor Councillor Parvin Damani presented the winning side with medals.