THE Cumbria School Games got off the ground in acrobatic fashion as hundreds of young gymnasts took part in the first event held at Penrith Leisure Centre.

The Key Steps Gymnastics Finals for primary school children saw Allerdale's Seaton Academy and Furness's Lindal and Marton School claim victory in the large and small school categories respectively.

Howard Todd, of the Cumbria Schools Gymnastics Association, said: “It is probably the largest event of its type in the UK. In excess of 1,600 children have taken part this year.

"Year on year the standards demonstrated at the final improve which is testimony to the quality of teaching and coaching in our primary schools.

"We must never underestimate the part enjoyable competition can play in raising standards and setting the foundation for an active lifestyle.

"Well done to all our young performers from across the county and our young judges from Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Penrith - you are a credit to your schools and the sport”.

Richard Johnston, Active Cumbria’s Partnership Manager, said: “The hard work put in by Cumbria Schools Gymnastics Association and the local School Games Organisers was evident throughout and the whole competition was exciting. It was great to see the first Cumbria School Games medals handed out to teams across the county.”