THE Kirkby Stephen 7-a-side football league kicked off its 8th season last week on one of the wettest days of the year so far. Despite constant rain all day, the astroturf pitch at Kirkby Stephen was able to host the first week of matches which produced some interesting results.

Last season's champions Bella Vista got off to a flyer when they beat Local Boys 5-0 with a very impressive display, clearly setting out their intentions for the coming season. There will be no shortage of challengers though as The Weather and Trevor team (containing some players from last years champions Bella Vista) also got off to a winning start, albeit in a very tight encounter with Melchester as did Unlikely Lads who also beat Fubar by the odd goal. In the other match of the night, last year's runners-up Carnt Say drew with Shruggers. This year, the league promises to be very close with all teams looking like they could be a danger to one another.

Look out for some team photos in forthcoming editions as you get to meet the teams who play in the league.