Children and staff at Sedgefield Community College are celebrating after receiving an award for promoting sport in school.

Sport England chief executive Roger Draper praised the school after it became one of 119 in the country to achieve Sportsmark Gold status.

He said: "We need to re-emphasise the benefits of physical education, sport and physical activity to children and young people through positive first experiences at school.

"This school has been awarded Sportsmark Gold for doing just that. They have shown a dedication to bring PE and sport to the fore of the school's focus and have encouraged their pupils to be active both in and out of lessons and within the community."

Headteacher Lynne Ackland said: "PE and sport has always been a high priority in our school but this recognition gives us a special credence that we can shout about."