YOUNG swimmers are training for an It's a Swimming Knockout competition thanks to a £2,000 grant.

Pupils in Ingleby Barwick and Thornaby were given the grant by Thornaby Town Council.

Nearly 90 pupils, aged nine to 11, from 11 primary schools, will take part in the swimming event on Tuesday.

Thornaby Town Council's vice-chairwoman, Beryl Robinson, said: "We are very pleased to support this outstanding event, held in our local pool.

"By working closely with Tees Active, we hope to be able to stimulate our young citizens into a more healthy lifestyle.

"The refurbishment recently carried out at Thornaby pool ensures that we have a facility to be proud of, making swimming an enjoyable, healthy activity for all."

Schools participating in the knockout challenge will be Bader, Christ the King, Harewood, Whinstone, Ingleby Mill, Myton Park, St Francis, St Therese, St Patrick's, Mandale Mill, Thornaby C of E and Westlands.

Each school will have a team of eight, who will compete in a float race, an obstacle race, collection race and a treasure hunt.

The games will be played in three heats, making a total of 15 heats, for which points are awarded.

Irrespective of results, every child will be a winner as each will be given a medal and ribbon, two free swim passes, a certificate and a healthy eating goody bag.

The overall winners will secure the Thornaby Town Council Knockout Trophy for their school for one year.

The competition has been organised by Tees Active, the organisation that runs Stockton's Borough Council's leisure services.