EIGHTY pupils from four primary schools hopped, skipped and jumped at the chance to take part in an indoor athletics festival.

Youngsters aged nine to 11 from Radipole, St John's, St Andrew's and St Nicholas and St Laurence primary schools took part in the event at Wey Valley School and Sports College.

Twenty pupils from each school took part, overseen by young leaders from the senior school.

The festival was organised by school sports co-ordinator Annie Hargreaves and Active Dorset athletics coach Tim Watton.

Members of Weymouth St Paul's Harriers Athletics Club were on hand to assist in the running of the event.

Mrs Hargreaves said the festival was part of a scheme to encourage a healthier and more active lifestyle.

"It is to give the primary school pupils some input into indoor athletics.

"A lot of them have never had the experience before so it is to give them the opportunity. It is a double-edged sword as we have young leaders from Wey Valley School and it is their first time as coaches. It is a leadership activity for them and a chance for the primary pupils to experience new activities."

Pupils took part in sprints, standing long jump, speed bounce, javelin and relays, as well as trying out the standing triple jump and the vertical jump.

Mr Watton said: "If they can move their arms and legs quickly then it is good for all the other games, tennis and all sports.

"I know there is a lot of talent. It is just a matter of identifying it."