From Pam Newby, Exeter 383654, June 17,2008

Young footballers in Exeter are to benefit from funding from Devon County Council's Exeter County Committee.

The eight County Committees have budgets from which Committee Members can allocate grants to local community groups or projects which will make a big difference to people's lives, in line with the Council's Strategic Plan.

The committee has agreed to give £1,800 to the running costs of the Soccer Spooktacular which is being organised for the eighth consecutive year by Devon Cornwall Constabulary and the Devon Somerset Fire Service. The aim of the football festival is to provide an event for young boys and girls at Halloween. Every year the number of those taking part has increased and this year's event may have to move from Exeter Arena to St Luke's School to enable more teams to take part.

The chairman of the Exeter County Committee, Cllr Richard Westlake, said: "We are very pleased to be asked to support this excellent event. The football festival demonstrates the commitment to young people from our Police and Fire and Rescue services. We wish the Spooktacular every success."

Note to Editors:

Cllr Westlake can be contacted on 01392 216476.