SPORTS students have been rewarded for helping to bring to life an exhibition celebrating local football heritage which closes today.

Pupils from Bishop Auckland College ran sports challenges in the Discovery Centre, in the town Market Place, to bring interactive elements to the exhibition, called From Wear Valley to Wembley - Football's Local Heroes.

The display, which was opened by Lawrie McMenemy, paid tribute to the achievements and personalities of Bishop Auckland, West Auckland, Tow Law, Crook and Willington football clubs.

Students who produced their own display for the exhibition, made a film about their sports course and held quizzes and football challenges for children and adult visitors, were rewarded for their efforts this week by Darlington Football Club manager David Hodgson.

Mr Hodgson offered the students a stadium tour and interviews with players, to be included in a promotional video, and match tickets.

He has also given weekly high achievers tickets to watch Darlington play.

Activity winners were Kieran Mavin, Georgia Turner and Christine Dawson, of St Joseph's Primary School, Newton Aycliffe, and Ricky Scott, of Bishop Auckland College.

Prizes include signed footballs, an autographed Darlington football shirt and tickets to watch Bishop Auckland FC.