FOOTBALL fever swept through Old Trafford last Wednesday when a primary school gym was transformed into an indoor football pitch.

Pupils at Old Trafford Community School held a 'party on the pitch' and took part in mini football matches and skills workshops.

The fun day was organised by parents and staff at Manchester United.

Parents Lisa Woods, Paulette Walters, Theresa Barry and Emma Sparkes wanted to show the children how much work goes on behind the scenes at the home of the Premiership Champions.

The children had their faces painted, created collages of crowds at a football match and there were

displays of old and new Manchester United shirts.

A museum guide also treated them to a potted history of the club's rise to international fame.

Angela Oldham, co-ordinator of early years' excellence at the school, said: "The fun day was organised by a group of four parents and one of Manchester United's artists in residence, Jane Brake.

"The children all know how much fun football is but not many realise what happens at the clubs every day.

"Throughout the day there was lots to do and all the children were able to get involved. They were very excited and they enjoyed all the activities. Staff felt it went really well and it was a great success."

The 250 children were all given tickets to go to Old Trafford on Saturday where Manchester United's 2-0 win over Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium was shown live on the big screen. They were also given key rings and pencils as souvenirs.

A video of the fun day will soon be shown at the ground and in the museum.