A VILLAGE team was victorious in a battle for the Newcastle United Foundation Corporate Cup.

Riding Mill FC came out on top at Play on the Pitch at St James' Park, pipping 20 other teams to the post. 

Play on the Pitch 2022, principally sponsored by Liontrust and hosted at the home of the Magpies, sees community members of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, faiths, and races – all united by the official charity arm of Newcastle Football club.

The corporate competition was followed by the foundation’s Premier League kicks girls’ squad, disability football clubs, street footballers, walking footballers, Newcastle Panthers and BTEC scholars all taking their place on the pitch.

More than 200 children aged five to 11 also enjoyed coaching sessions on the stadium pitch delivered by Newcastle United Foundation’s UEFA-licensed coaches. They also had the chance to meet Mehrdad Ghodoussi.

Steve Beharall, head of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We are proud to be making a difference in so many people’s lives and to provide opportunities we know will inspire younger generations for their future.

“Lots of us can only ever aspire to play elite football in a stadium and to play at St. James’ Park is a dream for so many. To make that dream a reality for hundreds of people – of all ages, abilities and from all backgrounds – marks a proud moment for us as a foundation supporting our community.”

He added: “We are grateful, as always, to Newcastle United and Liontrust for their generosity and support in helping us provide this unforgettable opportunity for our community.”

Foundation participants included young, female footballers from disadvantaged backgrounds, disabled, young people, asylum seekers and refugees, LGBTQ+ footballers, and older people accessing sport to boost their physical and mental health.