GYMNASTIC excellence has seen a Middlesbrough primary school finish top of the pile in a national competition.

The eight youngsters from Pallister Park Primary beat strong opposition to scoop the Under 11 crown in the British Schools Gymnastic Championship at Stoke on Trent.

In previous years, the school had won bronze and silver medals.

Headteacher Chris Wain described the school's achievement as remarkable.

She said: "We were competing against some schools that have specialist gymnastic coaching and top-class facilities. It's a remarkable achievement for the pupils and the teachers who help out.

"We have done well in the past but this year was brilliant, we are all delighted for the children."

To qualify, the youngsters had to take on teams from across the North-East.