YOUNGSTERS came together for the North East Herts School Sport Partnership s rounders festival. The event was held at Freman College in Buntingford, where more than 400 pupils from Years 3-6 gathered on the playing fields for an event organised by the co

YOUNGSTERS came together for the North East Herts School Sport Partnership's rounders festival.

The event was held at Freman College in Buntingford, where more than 400 pupils from Years 3-6 gathered on the playing fields for an event organised by the college's community sports leaders.

Partnership development manager Jan Wood said the festival was a "huge success" and praised all those who were involved.

She said: "It was a fantastic opportunity for the young people to meet pupils from other schools and benefit from working with older students.

"It also provided opportunities for the leaders to try out their communication, organisational and coaching skills."

Schools that took part included Therfield, Millfield, Reed, St Mary's, Sandon, Edwinstree, Greneway, and Ralph Sadleir.

Margaret Reid of Reed School said: "It was a lovely day and the pupils really enjoyed themselves.

"The coaching from the sports leaders was excellent and we'll definitely be back again next year."

Freman College's Year 11 sports leaders organised the event as part of their sports leadership award and led the youngsters in a number of skills sessions before the schools came together for a tournament.

The sports leaders were also joined by the East Region's Sport Champion, and England women's cricket captain and Ashes winner Charlotte Edwards.

As a Sport Champion she works with youngsters to help motivate them through sport.

Charlotte said: "Events like this are brilliant.

"To see the children's faces filled with such enjoyment is unbelievable. I love working with the children - it's an honour to be involved and give something back."

Jan said: "It's good for young people to meet someone like Charlotte, someone who's experienced some wonderful sporting achievements.

"Also, the sports leaders deserve a lot of praise and they have been meticulous in their planning and organising. They have the potential to become great sports leaders."

Sports leader Joel Walsingham said: "The children have been great and have really wanted to learn. Today has been a lot of fun. I've been impressed with their involvement.

"Some day I would like to be a PE teacher and initiatives like this really help you.

"It's a great idea because it benefits so many people."

William Thorpe of Millfield said: "I've had a lot of fun and have really enjoyed getting lots of rounders. I've learned how to hit the ball really far!"

Francesca Sica of St Mary's School said: "The tournament has been good and it's nice to play other schools.

"I've also enjoyed playing with the leaders who have been really fun and helpful."

Head of girls' PE at Freman College Andrea Roach said: "The sports leaders have been outstanding and the youngsters have really looked up to them. They play with such passion and enthusiasm, which is marvellous.

"The sports partnership is an excellent way of encouraging young people to take part in sport, and it's great too see the sports leaders and young pupils working together so well - which is really what it's all about.