WHITBY'S North Riding Eagles volleyball team are issuing an invitation to the first Whitby Seafoods Classic Beach Volleyball Tournament this Saturday, May 21.

Mascot Graham the seagull took part in some last minute training with students and players from Eskdale School, Whitby.

Rosie Donohughe, 13 from Mickleby, has only been playing for a month but is showing great talent already.

"I really like it and I'm looking forward to practicing on the beach tonight."

Local schools, East Whitby, Eskdale, Botton and Caedmon College all have teams and players taking part in the volleyball festival.

Great Britain stars, and Rio Olympic contenders Chris Gregory and Jake Sheaf will be getting the festival off to start at Eskdale on Friday where they will be demonstrating techniques and putting pupils through their paces. They will also be appearing on Saturday and are looking forward to bringing volleyball to spectators and encouraging new talent.

Teams from Scarborough, York, Bridlington, Hull, Middlesbrough and Harrogate will all be competing.

Anthony Laffan, who coaches the Eagles, is keen to engage all abilities and wants to see more locals playing.

"We want to nurture home grown talent and to get players into the national programme. This is our goal."

Sponsors of the match, Whitby Seafoods, will be serving up their popular Whitby Scampi from the scampi camper on the pier for players and spectators.

Whitby Seafoods' Junior Volleyball Tournament 10-3pm on the beach by the west pier.

Further details can be found on Volleyball England Website - www.volleyballengland.org//whitby_seafoods_beach_classic