STUDENTS from north-west Durham have proved they are among the toughest in the region.

Derwentside College's uniformed services department clinched first and third place in the annual inter-college challenge, held this year at Northumberland College's Kirkley Hall site, near Ponteland.

It brings together public services and uniformed services students from across the North-East.

A team captained by Sean Armstrong finished top, with the highest points score ever recorded in the competition. His colleague, Tony Keenan, led Derwentside's other team to third place.

Andrew McKenna, lecturer at Derwentside College's uniformed services course, in Stanley, said: "We are delighted with our students' achievements.

"This is the first time that we have ever won this prestigious regional event. They performed magnificently, showing their teamwork, communication and organisational skills."

The teams had to complete a series of tasks designed to stretch them mentally and physically.

Some command tasks included creating a 3D web out of abseiling ropes, crossing an electrical fence, and stacking crates to a height of 30ft. Other tasks included climbing the oldest oak tree in Northumberland, and a high ropes obstacle course carrying an egg.

Students taking part were: Sean Armstrong, Vicky Doolan, Michael Gaddes, Ria Gilbert, Carl Graven, Christopher Grierson, Kerry Haley, Chris Kearney, Tony Keenan, John Morton, Mark Murphy, Richard Nicholson, Kelly Patterson and Kayleigh Teasdale.