A badminton tournament, aimed at raising awareness of men's health within Blackburn and Darwen, proved a smash hit with local residents.

The event, which was delivered by Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, provided an enjoyable environment for men to participate in physical activity, while also complete free health tests and receive important medical advice.

The competition was won by Andy George and Colin Smith, who beat Chris Metcalf and Michael Sweeney in a closely-fought final. Andy said: "It was great to play and to win, but also good to learn more about important health issues and staying fit."

The doubles tournament was run in conjunction with Blackburn Rovers' Premier League Health project - a unique programme funded by the New Football Pools to help improve the state of men's health, particularly in deprived areas, all over the country.

Project co-ordinator Elliott Noble said: "The tournament was a great success. Engaging with men about health issues is notoriously difficult, so tournaments such as this enable us to put a positive and enjoyable spin on health awareness."

Blackburn Rovers Community Trust delivers free weekly badminton sessions at the Blackburn Rovers Sports Arena, Darwen Vale, on Monday nights between 8-10pm and Thursday nights between 7-9pm. For more information, please contact Elliott Noble on 01254 296122 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it