LOCAL youngsters did well at the 11th Greater Manchester Youth Games.

They were competing alongside some 4,500 athletes in 16 sports. And, representing Wigan, the team secured a Top 6 finish in 11 of the sports with four firsts and three seconds.

It all added up to a magnificent first - sharing the winners' rostrum with Stockport.

Borough organiser Stephen Toole was delighted. He said: "The result underlines all the hard work put into sport locally.

"It ensures we have a healthy sporting future.

"But, as equally satisfying was the manner in which this terrific result was achieved. We picked up several Fair Play awards, recognising the way you conduct yourself in sport is as important as the end result."

There were memorable performances . . .

Judo: Under the guidance of Frank Jones and Andy Clayton, the team achieved a Games first with a consecutive hat-trick of overall first place finishes.

The Pembertons of Leigh collected four medals - Carol and Chris (gold), Colin (silver) and Paul (bronze).

Netball: All three teams achieved a Top Three finish to give Wigan their first overall first spot in the history of the competition. All Saints Primary at Hindley provided many of the boys.

Rugby (League & Union): The U15 girls tag team, coached by Leigh RU, did well to finish fifth.

Hockey: Outstanding performance of the weekend came in the U13 boys event with a team from Lowton High, managed by the school's Head of PE Martin Lynn, were placed fourth.

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