CHILDREN from across the UK travelled to Stockton on Saturday to take part in the British Junior and Freestyle Wrestling Championships.

The national competition was held at Stockton Sports Centre and youngsters were able to apply wrestling rules, as used in last year's Commonwealth Games in Manchester, where coach and organiser Dave Sudron acted as referee.

More than 100 boys and girls aged between nine and 18 took part.

The event featured freestyle wrestling that consisted of two two-minute bouts for juniors and two three-minute bouts for the older contestants.

The idea of the contest is either to be first to reach ten points or through a pin move, which is judged by officials.

"Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and there was a great atmosphere," said assistant manager of the centre Barbara Rennison.

"It was really noisy but the children had the right attitude and were very sporting."

Trophies and medals were given to the first, second and third in more than 30 categories, which were defined by age, weight and sex.

The competition, organised in conjunction with the British Wrestling Association, was last held in Stockton ten years ago.

Mrs Rennison said: "We were very pleased to be hosting the event and everything has gone very smoothly. We enjoyed the day and would like to do the same again in the future."