Primary school football team reunites 47 years on

The Shadsworth Junior School team in 1977

Primary school pupils and teachers who were involved in a football match in Blackburn 47 years ago are reuniting to reminisce, and shoot goals.

In 1977, Shadsworth Junior School, coached by their teachers, played in the final of the Blackburn Schools FA Jubilee Shield at Ewood Park, finishing in a 1-1 draw.

In July, they will reunite to speak to current pupils about their subsequent careers, and challenge current teachers to a penalty shoot-out.

"We had such a great time we thought we'd do it again," said Karim Sabry, who played as a boy in the original match.

Karim Sabry scored his team's only goal at the final in Ewood Park

"We were nine or ten - it was a great time to be growing up," he said.

"My dad had a Super 8mm camera and he got most of the game - so it's there in colour, and we watch it from time to time and reminisce.

"I scored the goal, so it was fantastic - a lifetime's memory."

Members of the original team will address pupils at a school assembly on 5 July, before challenging the current teachers to a penalty shoot-out.

A memento from the Blackburn Schools FA Jubilee Shield at Ewood Park in 1977

Mr Sabry is now a barrister. Other members of the team have gone on to have successful careers as chefs, IT experts and managing directors, or in the Army.

"We want the kids to know they can do anything they want," said Mr Sabry.

"We had a wonderful team, and we were blessed to have such inspirational teachers that re-shaped our lives.

"They gave us such confidence and self-belief, they got us through to the final and that team spirit lives on.

"We are indebted to them."