A TEAM from St Philip's School was crowned champions at the third annual Atherton and Tyldesley Sports Association swimming gala.

More than 80 children from 11 different primary schools were cheered on by 150 supporters at the event, which was for children in key stage two.

The gala, which was hosted and sponsored by the Pelican Centre in Tyldesley, included a whole host of individual and team swimming races.

Mark Grogan, lead teacher for ATSA, said: "It was a roaring success, with four new records set for ATSA swimming galas throughout the afternoon.

"In terms of the scores, things were very close going into the final races with several schools still in with a chance of taking the title.

"However, once all the scores were added up it was the team from St Philip's who were crowned gala champions, with second place going to Holy Family and Garrett Hall taking third.

"I would like to thank Miss Stothard and her staff at the Pelican Centre for not only helping to organise this event and providing expert support during the afternoon, but also for sponsoring it – without their help the gala would not have been the success that it was.

"A special mention should also be given to all the spectators who gave up their afternoon to come along and support the children – they managed to create a superb atmosphere which helped to motivate them to do their best for their team."

Other schools taking part in the gala included St George's Central, Sacred Heart, Chowbent, St Richard's, Tyldesley Primary, St Ambrose Barlow, Parklee and St Stephen's.