FITNESS fanatic pupils from schools across Inverclyde competed in a hugely successful annual event which saw new champions crowned.

Inverkip Primary came out on top at the primary school Sports Hall Athletics finals, which took place at the newly-refurbished Greenock Sports Centre.

The event proved another smash hit this year, with the contest seeing 19 schools and dozens of young competitors enjoying a series of action-packed activities over a period of three months.

It all culminated in a final showdown between the top five schools last week.

Last year's joint-winners, Inverkip and Moorfoot primaries, were joined in the top five by King's Oak and Port Glasgow schools St John's and Newark.

Pupils battled it out against rival schools in several events - including relays, triple jump, long jump, vertical jump, javelin throwing, high stepper and speed bounce.

All of the children had a fantastic and fun time, encouraged by teachers, family and friends.

And it was Inverkip Primary who came out on top, edging out their opponents to claim the winner's crown.

The runners-up were Moorfoot and King's Oak finished in third place, with St John's and Newark primaries placed fourth and fifth respectively.

The event is run and organised by Inverclyde Leisure, assisted by Inverclyde Council's Active Schools team.

Jim Lyon, Inverclyde Leisure improvement and healthy living manager, said: "The final was a great event with all the teams giving their all and congratulations go in particular to Inverkip Primary.

"Inverclyde Leisure appreciates the enthusiasm shown by all the local schools for this event and it is a joy to witness so many children being active and having fun.

"I would like to thank Active Schools for their assistance and all the Inverclyde Leisure staff for their enthusiasm and energy which ensured that this year's programme was such a success.

"We will soon be planning for next year's event and are on the look-out for potential sponsors." The finale event last week followed several league meetings which started last year at both Ravenscraig and Lady Octavia sports centres.

The winner and runner-up from each section then progressed to the finals.

Jim said: "Sports Hall has been running for over 20 years and has been a great success in encouraging children to join a local club and take part in athletics."