FIFTEEN primary schools took part in the South Lakes Lacrosse Festival, held at the newly-refurbished John Hanley Pavilion at Dallam School.

The teams played a round robin stage with the top two teams from each group playing for the championship, the third in the plate and the fourth placed team going for the cup.

Storth won the plate final and Crosscrake took the honours in the cup final. The semi-finalists in the championship were contested between Crosthwaite, Vicarage Park, Kendal, Goodly Dale, Windermere, and St Mark’s, Natland.

The final was contested by Vicarage Park and St Mark’s, with the former edging to a close 6-5 victory.

The two finalists and Crosthwaite now progress to play the best teams in Cumbria and Lancashire on May 25. The winner of the 'Big North Championships' will then represent the area at the nationals in June.

Lacrosse is growing rapidly across the country from primary schools to universities. There are over 30 primary schools playing lacrosse in Cumbria and Lancashire. At primary level students play POP lacrosse which is a non-contact version of the game.

There are two clubs for junior boys and girls based in Penrith and Kendal.

Primary schools interested in taking part in Lacrosse should contact Mike Orme at michaelorme@hotmail.com.