YOUNGSTERS with a common bond forgot cultural differences thanks to the international language of football.

For the second year running Foots Cray Lions hosted its International Summer Tournament.

The competition saw more than 280 youngsters battle it out on the football pitch.

The junior club, which made it to the semi finals of last season's London Youth Cup, invited 18 children from Bexley's twin town of Evry, near Paris, to join them at the one-day event.

Association Sportive Evry, made up of two teams of youngsters, played against the club's 10 to 14 year-olds during the event's 80 games.

The tournament featured categories for under-12 and under-14 boys' teams.

And there was also a competition for under-13 girls' teams.

Each player from the top two teams in each category was awarded gold and silver mounted medals.

And all of the teams taking part were presented with cups.

Club general manager of five years Clive Marks said: "This is a terrific way to break down cultural boundaries as the children automatically have a common bond in football.

"This is all part of encouraging children of all abilities to take part in football."

He added: "The most important thing is the children all enjoyed themselves."

The July 29 event was hosted by Bexley Grammar School, Danson Lane, Welling, which is also providing accommodation for the visiting French players.