EXCITED primary school students experienced Tavistock College's new multi-million pound sports facilities for themselves during a special opening event last week.

Pupils from feeder primary schools took part in four disciplines during the sports open day last Thursday — making use of the competition-standard six lane athletics track and long jump pits.

Chrissie Bassett, the college's PE and school sport co-ordinator, said: 'The students were split into four groups and all competed in all activities — the Vortex Howler throw, long jump, sprint and long distance run.

'It was the first event on the new track for the community and the primary school kids were really excited by it.'

Tavistock College asked the visiting schools to create flags to represent themselves. The year 3 and 4 students from Tavistock, Whitchurch, Lamerton, Mary Tavy, Princetown, Lifton and St Andrew's primary schools paraded them round the track, instilling a sense of team spirit before the start of the event.

'We're really pleased they've come to celebrate with us and represent their area in the Tavistock learning community,' added Miss Bassett.

The event was hosted in partnership with QuadKids, an organisation designed to give children the chance to try out track and field events and identify the stars of tomorrow.

The company's national co-ordinator, Peter Barry, helped run the event along with Keith Reid, Armada Athletics co-ordinator south west, and two England Athletics officials.

Mr Barry said: 'I've come down to lend support to the event as part of the opening of the new track — which is brilliant. QuadKids is a new competition format sanctioned by England Athletics and the Youth Sports Trust.

'The young people get a huge amount out of it because they have to do all the events, unlike many athletics competitions where you just do a run, jump or throw. Here they do them all, and that's what they really enjoy.'

After a fast-paced, inspiring morning, the primary students were presented with medals and certificates before heading back to their schools to make way for Tavistock College Year 7 and 8 students.

Speaking to the students, Miss Bassett said their PE teachers had nominated them to take part as they were outstanding, trying very hard or making real improvements in sport.

The students competed across the four events to gather points for themselves as individuals and for their houses. Tremaine house emerged as the ultimate victor, with Glanville in second and Drake taking third.

The best individual boy and girl were named as Gavin Jenkin and Holly Gibbs.

Holly said: 'I'm really proud, I didn't expect it. The new facilities are fantastic, it's a real privilege to have them.'

The students had a brilliant time trying out the track and finished the competition brimming with enthusiasm.

Year 8 student Josh Towl said: 'The sports facilities are really good to use in PE lessons.

'It's good to have them brand new and know they're ours. I enjoyed the sprint because it was fun and exciting.

'It'll definitely encourage me to do a lot of sport; coming here gives me more opportunities.'