YOUNG athletes battled for honours on the sports fields commemorating the foundation of a school that opened its doors at the outbreak of the First World War.

Hockey and rugby players from across the North of England landed on Barnard Castle Preparatory School for a tournament to celebrate its 100th birthday.

Twenty schools took part in the event, which featured hockey for girls and rugby for boys.

Hosts Barnard Castle reached the finals of both events with the girls sharing the glory with a draw against St Olave’s, York, and the boys coming runners up to Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, in Wakefield, with the score of 28-7.

Barnard Castle Prep School headmaster Carl Rycroft said: “The year 1914 was such a momentous time in which to be founded and this adds greatly to the heritage of the school.

“Over the past century the school has evolved into a thriving centre for education and throughout its history sport has played a prominent role in the style of education on offer. It is therefore fitting that we started our centenary celebrations with such a successful sports tournament.”

Organiser Ben Wicling added: “All the staff and volunteers, the Barney Friends and the other schools who supported us, have done an amazing job ensuring the first celebratory event was such a resounding success.

“Sports clubs and teams are thriving and student’s enthusiasm is unbridled. They really want to compete and win and they believe they can, which has boosted our expectations as teachers and coaches as well.”