Races get underway at Blyth Primary School

YOUNG athletes have enjoyed two days of sporting competition watched by hundreds of parents.

The youngest children at Bede Academy Primary, in Blyth, got the races and challenges under way followed the next day by Years 3 and 4 and, finally, Years 5 and 6.

The older children competed in a series of events including hurdles, jumping, throwing balls, javelins and beanbags, relay, sprint and one lap running races.

The days were organised by Laura Street, head of girls' PE at Bede Academy Secondary, and also proved to be a good training ground for Sports Leaders, who are following a qualification that contributes to their university points.

Emma Carr, 17, explained: "Our role is to help the PE staff. We have to do ten hours of volunteering a year as well as paperwork to qualify for the award. On Primary sports days we get to run the different events for the children."

Anna Smith, 17, added: "It's like being a PE teacher for the day. I like working with children and it's great to be able to support the younger ones."

Irene Watson, head teacher at Bede Primary, said: "We've had two days of wonderful sporting activities organised by Mrs Street and her team in glorious weather. The children have put in a lot of effort and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

"We were delighted to see so many parents and grandparents supporting their children and we are also grateful for their support of our fundraising cake stall.