PRIMARY pupils in Gourock have run away with a coveted cross country title — and ended a 10-year wait for the crown.

Young athletes from St Ninian’s Primary are celebrating being named champions of the prestigious Inverclyde Schools race.

The talented group of boys and girls saw off competition from pupils across the district to claim glory — bringing the shield back to the Staffa Street school for the first time in a decade.

The competition was held at nearby St Columba’s High and there were team and individual successes for St Ninian’s.

Head teacher Lesley McCabe said: “The Inverclyde Schools Cross Country Challenge — three races run on Saturday mornings between January and March — is a very popular event and well supported by schools across Inverclyde.

“Each race is approximately one mile with events for children from primaries five, six and seven.

“We’re delighted to have triumphed.

“There were also excellent individual performances, including from Betty Fischer Keogh who was the overall P5/6 girls champion, and strong team success in every race.

“I’m very proud of everyone who took part.”

St Ninian’s were well prepared thanks to their ‘mile a day’ initiative and support from depute head teacher Siobhan Currie, who also braved the inclement weather to run alongside pupils and encourage them.

Primary six pupil Max Kelly, 10, said: “It feels so good to have won.

“We’re delighted that we’ve finally got the title back after ten years.”

P5 pupil Niamh McLaughlin, nine, heaped praise on their athletics mentor for her encouragement.

She said: “When I first arrived in the hall Ms Currie was very cheery, wished us luck and told us she hoped we would win.

“I didn’t think we would but when we did I was very happy.

“I enjoyed it and we all pushed each other on.”