Howzat for competitive spirit?

10.14.52am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 7th Jun 2007

Over 300 pupils descended on Bushy Park last Wednesday to do battle in Richmond Council's Competitive Edge cricket festival.

Boys and girls from 20 primary and secondary schools were blessed with glorious sunshine during the all-day event at the Teddington and Teddington Town Cricket Clubs. Teddington School triumphed in the Year 8 Boys event, pipping Shene School to the title, while Waldegrave School edged out Teddington in the Year 8 Girls event. Chase Bridge Primary won the Kwik Cricket tournament beating Stanley Juniors in the final, while Sacred Heart were Plate Winners. The festival was the latest sporting extravaganza delivered as part of the Council's pioneering efforts to get more young people playing competitive sport. It was organised by the Richmond School Sports Partnership and Middlesex County Cricket Club.

Cllr John Coombs, Cabinet Member for Youth, Culture and Leisure, said:

"The young people involved served up a thrilling day of entertainment and I was delighted they had glorious weather to match. Encouraging more youngsters to take part in competitive sport is one of the Council's key priorities as it helps them develop teamwork skills, keeps them fit and healthy and boosts confidence. Competitive Edge is a marvellous initiative and I hope it continues to enthuse young people and maintains the borough's rich sporting tradition. We are particularly blessed to have fantastic facilities such as the cricket clubs in Bushy Park, where people of all ages can play or watch sport."