Whitley Bay High School student Catherine Shields, 15, received £3,331.25 from the Mayor's Wellbeing Fund for Children and Young People.

And the money was used to enable Tynemouth United girls' team to compete in the prestigious Storsjocupen Tournament in Stockholm, Sweden.

As a keen footballer for the last five years – playing for both Tynemouth United and Wallsend Boys' Club – she wanted the skills of North Tyneside's footballers to be pitted against some of the best young female teams from across the world.

The trip also enabled the youngsters to experience different cultures – including joining an international parade through the city with youngsters from as far afield as Brazil, Poland and India – and see the sites of Stockholm.

Catherine said: "Getting the money back for our trip to Sweden was fantastic because we had such a brilliant time playing football, seeing the sights and learning about the culture.

"We also formed some lasting friendships with Norwegians and Swedish people, who we are still in touch with and who have invited us back in 2008."

On the pitch, Tynemouth United won their group against Swedish and Norwegian teams before going out on penalties in the knockout stage to host side Opa.

Mr Harrison said: "I am delighted Catherine and her team-mates have benefited.

"This fund, which is actually allocated by young people themselves through the 'Dosh Posse', enables youngsters to get help towards learning new skills that benefit both themselves and their communities.

"It's great that during 2007 so many young people from across the borough have come forward to apply for the money."