THE Under 11 girls hockey team from The Downs prep school in Colwall who were winners of their county championships earlier this term, continued their successful performances at the recent West of England tournament in Bristol.

Despite being the smallest school participating on the day, The Downs emerged as worthy runners-up in a hotly contested tournament, beaten only by a strong side from Millfield School.

"With only 11 girls in that age group from whom to select our squad, it is remarkable what these eight girls have been able to achieve," said Mr Chris Black, proud headmaster of The Downs.

"They have worked extremely hard and really deserve this success," he added, "as do their coaches, who must take much of the credit for our recent achievements on the hockey field."

The team was Ros Arscott, Rhian White, Emily Kempa, Eve Simpson and Georgia Hurt; front from left, Philippa Roberts, Emily Hill and Danielle Moyles.