GRADUATES from Teesside University battled against current students in a sporting clash at the weekend.

Students took on graduates at basketball, hockey, rugby, canoeing and gaelic football in the new £6m Olympia Building, in Victoria Road, Middlesbrough.

About 100 graduates took part in the tournament to round off academic awards week.

Sarah Buckley, university alumni officer, said: "This great event is a real opportunity for graduates to continue their involvement with the university, plus a chance to take part in sporting events in our exciting new buildings.

"Maintaining relationships with graduates is key to all my alumni operations."

Paula Dzucs-Jones, from the university's sports and recreation team, who has been organising the competition for 12 years, said this year's was the biggest so far.

She said: "The event has grown considerably over the years and now features as a key date in the diary of graduates and current students alike."

The Olympia building includes a sports hall, squash courts and a temperature-controlled chamber used by students on sport and exercise programmes.