FURNESS produced a sterling defence of their Cumbria School Games crown – handing over the title to new champions Eden after a great battle.

Despite victories in the Tri-Golf, tennis and orienteering, Furness were only able to finish second, as Eden took first place in six of the 12 events on the day in Carlisle.

In the Tr-Golf, it was a historic victory for the Victoria Academy team, who claimed a fourth successive title.

Having won the Year 3/4 event for two years running, they defended their year 5/6 crown this time round, beating South Lakes school St Martin and St Mary's into second place.

Victoria teacher Craig Rutherford was thrilled with the victory, and said: “We are very proud of our pupils, not only with their success, but way they represent our school during sporting activities, becoming excellent role models for our younger pupils.”

PGA professional Paul Rawlinson, who led coaching in all the Furness schools, added his praise for the Victoria success.

He said: “The Victoria team that have won the county finals four years in a row have been a fantastic team and a credit to their school.

“To win any county finals is amazing, but to be successful for four in a row is outstanding, especially as in two of the four competitions they defeated children from the school year above them.

“They will definitely be a hard act to follow, and I wish them all well on their journey into their new schools.”

On the tennis court, Furness champions Chetwynde saw off a strong challenge from Copeland winners St James, of Millom.

Millom St James' Helen High was pleased to see her team, who have received coaching in school from George Spry, do so well, having tied on games won with Chetwynde, but missing out on the title on points lost.

The orienteering brought victory for Holy Family, representing Furness, while there were second-placed finishes for the Yarlside Academy Years 3 and 4 Tri-Golfers, the Ulverston Victoria and Chetwynde netball teams, and the St Bernard's inclusive table tennis side.

In total, 650 children from across Cumbria competed, with Eden taking top spot from Furness, and Carlisle in third. Allerdale were fourth, South Lakes fifth and Copeland sixth.

Eden schools games officer Becky Wolstenholme was pleased with her district's win, and said: “It is absolutely fantastic that Eden not only compete against hugely populated districts such as Carlisle and Furness, but actually come out on top.”

Active Cumbria's Richard Johnston added: “The students who took part today represented their areas with pride and enthusiasm. The various venues in Carlisle were hives of competition and the there was a real sense of enjoyment amongst those taking part.

“The atmosphere at the closing ceremony was certainly a testament to that. Organising an event such as today and the other competitions that take place throughout the year takes a lot of commitment by a number of different groups of people, I would like to thank all the student volunteers, staff and parents who contribute so much to the success of the school games.”