FOOTBALL-CRAZY pupils from Dorchester got top results at the David Beckham Academy.

The lucky students from Dorchester Middle School were the first in Dorset to be offered a place at the prestigious footballer's camp in Greenwich, London, and achieved high scores on the day.

Head of PE at the school, Matthew Roberts said: "Four members of staff were lucky enough to take 29 year nine pupils.

"We are the first Dorset school to be offered the chance - it's incredibly difficult to get in because the London schools take priority and monopolise it."

He added: "The children had a day of activities, each taking on roles as physiotherapists, nutritionists, scouts - all in a huge arena.

"There were various items of David Beckham memorabilia around the place, including shirts and boots from through the ages belonging to him and his team mates.

"We didn't see David Beckham although he does pop in from time to time but on this occasion we were told he was celebrating his wife's birthday in Paris."

The children also took part in a mini tournament with nine other schools including ones from East London and Milton Keynes.

They were given ratings throughout the day in all the activities they undertook and Dorchester Middle School was proud to take first and second place overall.

The pupils were awarded certificates and given limited edition David Beckham footballs.

Mr Roberts said: "It was a long day, we left at 5.30am and got back at 7.30pm.

"It was the opportunity for them to go to the academy and receive first-class coaching from ex and current professional footballers and to involve themselves in other areas.

"The academy is the size of two football pitches side by side, all under cover. It is right next to the Millenium Dome.

"The pupils were quite passionate about the actual day and some who didn't play football are now giving a thought to becoming future David Beckhams."