SOME of the region's brightest sporting stars have been honoured at a civic reception.

Four Hartlepool teams who represented the area in the Millennium Youth Games in Southampton, were guests of honour at a reception hosted by the mayor, Councillor Frank Rogers.

More than 400 children represented Hartlepool in the local heats of the competition, but only four teams made the finals.

The under-15s girls netball team, coached by Margaret Storey from Oaksway netball club, competed against 50 other teams to come fifth in the finals of the games.

The town's under-15s boys moderate learning disability football team and the boys under-13 basketball team also competed.

The girls under-15 football team were also good enough to reach the finals.

Coun Rogers said: "I though it was important to recognise the efforts of these youngsters as they have proved to be great ambassadors for the town.

"Youngsters often get criticised for their behaviour and it is only right they should be praised when they deserve it.