Students at a Darlington school have put their cycling skills to the test in a national search for talent.

The British Cycling Talent Team was at Longfield Comprehensive School yesterday to seek out Olympic and world class potential in various cycling skills.

Alison Raw, partnership manager for the school's sport co-ordinator programme, said about 150 pupils were tested throughout the day, and a second testing stage is planned for September for those who showed ability.

They were tested at both endurance and speed.

"As something brand new and different, I'm setting up a British Cycling Go-Ride Club at the school," said Ms Raw.

"The club basically gives students the opportunity to learn how to ride properly, as well as new cycling skills. But it won't be like the usual cycling proficiency course.

"This will be more fun and activity-based, and will be centred around developing their skills off the road. As part of that, we had the national cycling team here spotting talent."

Ms Raw said students enjoyed the day and showed a lot of interest, so she hoped to extend the club to primary schools and some other secondary schools in Darlington next year.

"All the students have worked really hard and it's been a lot of fun. The feedback has been great," she said.