HUNDREDS of pupils from high schools across Stirling participated in Active Stirling's annual Junior Games.

The event took place at the sports village and was supported by PE staff, sports leaders, volunteers and local clubs.

Balfron High School were crowned overall champions and lifted the Junior Games Shield after a strong performance across the board.

The closely-contested games were epitomised by the spread of gold medals across Stirlingshire with Dunblane High School taking the netball title; Bannockburn and St Modan's High Schools sharing the spoils at the basketball; Stirling High School victorious in the volleyball; and McLaren High School dominating the hockey competition.

Andrew Ritchie, a PE teacher at Dunblane High School, said: “We feel there is great value in increasing the exposure of young people to a competitive environment and were pleased to have representation across all events.

“Through events like the Junior Games we are able to develop and strengthen our partnerships with both Active Stirling and the other secondary schools.’’

Keith Glendinning, Active Stirling's school sport competition co-ordinator, added: “We were delighted with the response to this year's Junior Games with all seven secondary schools engaged as well as local clubs, volunteers and sports leaders who helped support the event.

“We are committed to ensuring there is strong provision for competitive school sport in Stirling and will continue to work with all of our partners to enhance our offering going forward.''

In total, 350 pupils took part in the competition which is now in its sixth year.

For more information, visit activestirling.org.uk