MORE than 1,000 children from across the county recently descended on Bromsgrove School to kick off the Worcestershire Winter School Games.

While the rain couldn't be avoided, participants' spirits were not dampened as teams from 56 schools went head-to-head in11 different competitions, from handball to pan-disability football.

Hosted by the Local Organising Committee, Sports Partnership Herefordshire and Worcestershire and School Games Organisers, the games saw children – aged from seven to 15 years old, battling for the title of Worcestershire Winter School Games Champion.

The festival was also supported by a team of young leaders and volunteers, as well as a media team made up of budding reporters, photographers and video journalists.

Steve Brewster, chief executive officer at the Sports Partnership Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: "The School Games is a unique opportunity to motivate and inspire millions of young people across the country to participate in more competitive school sport.

"We are delighted to welcome over 1,000 young participants and leaders to Bromsgrove School and wish to pay tribute to our sponsors Phenix Education and Redpoint Climbing as well as the National Lottery and Sport England for supporting such an incredible event, which goes from strength to strength."

For more on the event, or to see the results, go to sportspartnershiphw.co.uk.