CROSS-COUNTRY runners are leaping for joy after being placed among the best in the country.
A team of six girls from Barnard Castle Preparatory School competed in the prestigious IAPS National Cross-Country Championships in Ipswich.
Staged along a 2km course in the stunning grounds of Woodbridge School, the pupils came a close fourth overall, from 19 teams and a total of 130 young athletes, putting them in the top 20 runners for their age nationally.
The team comprised Year 6 pupils Sasha Patterson, Abigail Marley, Evelyn Nesbitt, Bea Wilks and Year 5 runners Freya Turner and Millie Ranson.
Headmistress Laura Turner said: “The event was an incredible experience for the children and their parents, who travelled down to spectate, and the girls performed exceptionally well.
“I loved the fact that they ran as a team. There was amazing spirit and they supported each other so well. There was also great camaraderie among parents, pupils and staff who travelled to the event which was lovely to see.
“Cross-country has really taken off at Barney Prep with more than 60 pupils, from Years 1-6, in our club, which meets after school every Friday. They all absolutely love it and it certainly helps them physically and mentally being active outdoors and in the fresh air.
“Sport is so important to children’s learning. It energizes them and boosts their stamina, it encourages a healthy sense of competition, it stimulates their minds and boosts mental wellbeing.”