East Cambridgeshire District Council

Runners were under starters orders, hockey players twitched for the bully off and rugby players nervously awaiting kick off at today's East Cambridgeshire Youth Games.

The games, which took place at Littleport Leisure Centre, was the largest youth sporting event ever held in the District. The competitors, who were aged from seven to eleven years olds, came from schools all across the district to enter activities ranging from Quicksticks (Hockey), Tag Rugby, Mini Tennis and Quadkids (athletics).

Each school represented a country to highlight the spirit of the Olympics and entered in procession dressed in their adopted nation’s colours with flags and banners reflecting their new country.

The competition was tense but fair with the eventual and overall School Champions being Ely St Mary’s Church of England Junior School and Ditton Lodge First School won the Cultural Olympiad Award for best representing their adopted country which was Russia.

As well as the competitions there was also the chance for younger children to try and range of sports at the Taster Schools where activities such as Fencing, Tri Golf, Cheerleading and Balance Boarding.

The Mobile Play Scheme was also there for the children to play on in between games.

Cllr Anthea Davidson, Chairman of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: "The Youth Games was a great day celebrating the whole range of sporting prowess in the District. It was a fantastic event with schools joining in hoping to win but happy to be out and about in this lovely weather having a great time.

“The Olympic theme was a sight to behold with so many colours, flags and music adding to a really special occasion. A lot of hard work goes into events like these from officers at the Council to teachers from the schools but it is the children who really make the day special and will take away so many happy memories.”

The day was organised by East Cambridgeshire District Council, Witchford School Sports Partnership, Competition Managers and local clubs as part of work to encourage children and young people to enjoy play as a way to keep fit and healthy.

ENDS

Notes for editors

For further information contact Tony Taylorson in the Communications Team on 01223 699285.