Here for the cheer

By Andrew Haslam in Blois

One of the most notable features of the first two rounds of matches in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship finals has been the buoyant atmospheres in the various grounds around France's Centre region.

Large attendances
Both games involving the hosts have drawn close to 5,000 spectators at the Stade Jean Leroi in Blois, with a friendly and hospitable crowd providing France with substantial vocal support throughout their victories against Northern Ireland and Spain.

Local popularity
However, matches have been well-attended around the region, with the first game of the tournament between Ukraine and England watched by a healthy crowd in Avoine. Despite strong winds and driving rain, large groups of local schoolchildren kept up a rousing chorus of songs and chants throughout the match, and other spectators were only too ready to acknowledge the success of the tournament.

'Fabulous idea'
"This is a very good match, and a fabulous idea," Katrin told uefa.com at the Ukraine-England game. "I also play football, for a local women's team, and I love the sport. This is a great tournament, a fantastic atmosphere and I am really enjoying it. I will definitely be coming here again for the match between Ukraine and Portugal [on Sunday]."

Enjoyable environment
Local football fans have been eager to offer their backing to the eight teams in the competition, with sides enjoying strong support at each match. Elisbeth, who attended the game between Austria and Portugal, had a typical attitude as she said: "It is not very nice weather here, but I am still enjoying the atmosphere. I have never really been interested in football, but I saw this match was being played in Tours and I thought it would be good to come. I have enjoyed it so far and would certainly like to come again – if only we had seen some goals!"

Local initiative
UEFA and the local organising committee have ensured that football fans around the region are encouraged to attend games, with particular emphasis placed on local schoolchildren. The success of this initiative has been clear to see, with scores of youngsters present at the matches, many with their faces painted in appropriate team colours.

French support
Unsurprisingly, France's matches have been the most popular with local supporters, with Emmanuel – who attended Thursday's Group A game between France and Spain with his two young children – going some way towards explaining the popularity of the event.

'Great tournament'
"I was here for the first game on Tuesday, and in spite of the rain, I really enjoyed it – particularly as France won!" he said. "I thought it was a great atmosphere and the match was played in a great spirit, which is the same today. The crowd looks very colourful here, and I think this is a great tournament and a good way to get children interested in football."