PUPILS from schools across Rossendale have secured places at the largest youth sporting event in the county, the SPAR Lancashire School Games, after taking victory in girls' football, high 5 netball and inclusive football.

St Paul's Primary School stormed to success in the girls' football event at Fearns Community Sports College, while Alder Grange High School pupils claimed the top spot in inclusive football at the same venue. Meanwhile, St Bartholomew's Church of England Primary School pupils scooped gold in a high 5 netball competition held at Haslingden High School.

The students will now go on to represent the district at the SPAR Lancashire School Games county finals where they will compete against teams from 14 other Lancashire districts to be named county champions in girls' football, high 5 netball and inclusive football.

Nathan Bibby, who is the school games organiser for Rossendale and arranged the events, said: "It's always great to see children so passionate about sport and determined to secure those coveted spots at the county finals. I'd like to congratulate all three victorious teams and wish them luck ahead of the big event in Blackpool next month."

Now in its tenth year, the SPAR Lancashire School Games comprises two main events designed to give all children the opportunity to participate in competitive sport.

Schools across Lancashire are now battling it out for a place at the SPAR Lancashire School Games county finals, to compete against pupils from 15 county districts to be crowned champions in sports including rounders, tennis, orienteering, netball, athletics and gymnastics.

Over 2,400 youngsters are expected to take part in the event at Stanley Park in Blackpool on July 5, a result of the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games, which inspired thousands of children to participate in competitive sport.

Organised by Lancashire Sport Partnership, the event is implemented by the county's school games organisers and sponsored by James Hall & Company Ltd, the SPAR distributors for the North of England. It is part of the national £128m school games programme