HUNDREDS of primary school pupils got themselves in a spin when they tried out a new way of keeping fit.

Gathered in Middlesbrough's Centre Square the youngsters enjoyed a Hoop Hop session, combining hip hop music with the traditional hoola hoop.

Kellee McQuinn, the founder of Hoop Hop, led the sessions with children from Sacred Heart, Abingdon and Newport Primary schools.

Janette Bainbridge, Middlesbrough Council's Healthy Schools Manager, said: "Hoop Hopping is a dynamic physical activity that is ideal for improving health, getting fit and losing weight while having fun.

"People of any age can Hoop Hop so as well as the schools taking part were also aiming to get the activity into community groups across the town. Its very suitable for people who do not like team games and requires little equipment."

Following the launch the council is hoping to roll the project out across schools and youth clubs in a bid to tackle childhood obesity.