SOME 2,000 children and young people attended the largest ever Herefordshire School Games Festival last week.

Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire and Stride Active were delighted to welcome the children and young people from 71 schools across the county to the Herefordshire Summer School Games Festival to the Halo Leisure Centre for a day of fun sporting events and alternative forms of physical activity.

The day boasted activities such as weightlifting, netball, football and rugby along with cheerleading and many other sporting activities.

Two inspirational athletes attended the event to inspire the participants -Annasley Park, the ninth unsupported solo female to row across the Atlantic Ocean, and two-time British Paralympian javelin champion, Dan Pembroke, offered their support and insight to all of the young athletes.

Simon Thomas, Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s deputy chief executive, said: "This was the largest school games festival to date. We are hoping that all the young people will leave with lasting memories of physical activity and sport which will lead to lifelong participation and enjoyment for years to come.”

The event was also supported by 261 young leaders from 14 schools in the county, many of which were former participants who returned to give back to the children attending this year.

Kieram Hallam, activities manager for Stride Active, said: “The festival was an incredible celebration of sport and physical activity.

“A huge part of what made it run so smoothly was the dedication and passion of our brilliant young leaders from local high schools; they were outstanding role models.

“The smiles of the participants, their positivity, and willingness to have a go are exactly what the school games is all about.”

Since 2012, Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire has organised School Games events across the two counties, inspiring young people to be physically active for life through positive experiences at a young age.