THE battle to find the next sportshall athletics champions is underway.

Pupils got off to a flying start in the 2006/07 competition for primary school pupils in the rural heats, with 10 fighting it out for a place in the final.

After two closely contested heats, Stapeley, Wybunbury, Weston, Bickerton, Sound and Wrenbury are though to the final, to be held in mid-January next year.

Calveley, Acton, Audlem and Bridgemere all performed well at events including circuit relays, throwing, hurdles, long jumps and standing jumps, but missed out.

Organiser Niall McGregor, who works for Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council's sports development unit, said: 'Both heats were excellent events.

'The main thing is that all the youngsters had fun and tried their best, and that is what happened. They were a credit to their schools. Thanks to Mal-bank High School for their help.'

He added: 'All young people who took part are encouraged come down to Crewe and Nantwich AC on Tuesdays or Thursdays, between 6.30pm and 7.30pm. The first session is free.'

Stapeley were the winners of Heat One, clocking up 651 points. But they were eclipsed by Bickerton, who notched 660 points in winning Heat Two.

The urban schools also got underway last week, with heats taking place at Shavington High School today, and the last to follow at Brine Leas next year.