SPORTY pupils are celebrating after receiving a national award.

The Hermitage School, in Chester-le-Street, has earned a Sportsmark Gold award for its outstanding commitment to sports provision - an upgrade from the Sportsmark status it achieved two years ago.

The school has developed a programme enabling pupils to move from school sport to sport in the community.

Headteacher Ian Robertson said: "News of the award has given the school a real sense of achievement.

"PE and sport has always had a high priority in our school, but this recognition by Sport England gives us a special credence."

Ninety-five secondary schools across the country received a Sportsmark Gold award with 440 receiving a Sportsmark award for promoting the benefits of physical activity.

Mr Robertson said: "I believe we must continue to reinforce the benefits of keeping active and fit to our young people as they are the next generation and sport is a key building block to a healthy adult life."

Sport England's chief executive, Roger Draper, praised the schools for ensuring PE and sport remain a priority.

He said: "We are finding more and more of our young people are becoming overweight as a result of their diet and a sedentary lifestyle.

"We need to re-emphasise the benefits of sport and physical activity to children and young people through positive experiences at school.

"These schools have been awarded Sportsmark for doing just that."