CHILDREN have taken part in an aquathlon to raise awareness of opportunities in paralympic sport.

Pupils from schools across Darlington and the Tees Valley did a 25-metre swim followed by a 400-metre run as part of a national project organised by British Triathlon.

Children aged seven to 14 with moderate to severe learning difficulties, emotional behavioural difficulties and autism, took part in the event, hosted by the Education Village, in Darlington.

The event was organised by British Triathlon’s Special Schools project.

In its first year, the project was set up to aid the delivery of triathlon events in schools across the country.

Georgie Rutherford, regional programme manager, said: “Schools are given training and coaching DVDs so they can host their own events and give children a chance to take part in sports in a competitive environment.”

Ken Thomas, swimming teacher at the Education Village, said: “The event went very well. The children loved it.”

Mr Thomas, who has worked for schools in Darlington borough for 31 years, is studying towards a triathlon coaching award.

Julian Wills, British Paratriathlon manager, said: “This project forms part of our British strategy to introduce children to multidisciplined sport and give them lifelong sporting opportunities.”

This event formed part of the children’s build-up to the Kids of Steel Triathlon, which will take place in Eston, Teesside, in September.