Comprehensive schools in east Durham sent teams to East Durham and Houghall Community College to compete in a mathematics challenge.

The annual competition centred around the problem of stacking a collection of "cannon balls" into a symmetrically structured tower.

Curriculum manager at the college Fred Harrison explained how cannon balls were once stored on brass plates called monkeys, and in cold weather the freezing plates contracted, causing the balls to roll off - hence a popular phrase about balls and brass monkeys.

The winning team came from Easington Community School, with Seaham Comprehensive in second place.

Mr Harrison described the day as "very successful" and applauded the high turnout of students.

College Principal Ian Prescott said: "This is always a popular experience for the best mathematicians in each school and gives them a chance to pit their wits against similar pupils from other schools in a challenging but stimulating setting.