TWO primary school stars are set to test their mathematical mettle as part of a national maths challenge.

Will Birks and Lexie Edge, both Year 6 pupils at Red House School in Norton, near Stockton, were among thousands of children that took part in the first round of the national Primary Maths Challenge.

Their exceptional skills placed them in the top two per cent of the competition that attracted 68,000 entrants.

Out of 69 North-East children entering from ten schools, 36 achieved bronze certificates, 20 silver and 13 were awarded gold, including Lexie and Will.

The pair will now compete for against other children from across the country next week.

Headmaster and maths specialist, Ken James, said: “Building on the success of last year, we were delighted with the response from local schools.

“The challenge gave the children the opportunity to put their knowledge into practice and I'm pleased that two of our own pupils will take part in the next stage of the competition.

“This is a terrific achievement and we're very proud of them."