PUPILS from Wear Valley schools gathered for the launch of their own mini-Commonwealth Games.

Government Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong attended a ceremony on Friday at Crook Civic Centre where 42 children - representatives from every primary, secondary and special school in the Wear Valley - took part in a draw to find out which country they will represent.

This summer 1,250 children will take part in the mini-Commonwealth Games Festival to mark the real event, which takes place in Manchester this year.

The Wear Valley event is on June 27, at Durham University's Maiden Castle sports complex and will follow the format of the real games, including an opening ceremony with a parade of flags from different countries.

As part of the preparations, the youngsters will make their own flags and practise sports including cricket, hockey, tag rugby and table tennis.

Alan Duff from Durham County Council's PE advisory unit, told the youngsters that he hoped they would enjoy the build-up to the competition and learning about the countries they will be representing.

Ms Armstrong, North-West Durham MP, said: "It is great to know that schools in the Wear Valley are using opportunity of the Commonwealth Games to build their knowledge and understanding of Commonwealth countries and at the same time do it through sport."