ELLESMERE Port bid a triumphant farewell to the Cheshire Youth Games on Saturday as the borough clinched a hat-trick of titles.

Hundreds of youngsters from across the county went head to head in 11 different sports at Cheshire Oaks High School and the David Lloyd Leisure Centre in what organisers have described as the most successful games yet.

But the annual competition is unlikely to return to Ellesmere Port next year as it has completed its three-year cycle in the borough and will move elsewhere in the county.

Sarah Nancollas, spokeswoman for organisers Cheshire and Warrington Sports Partnership, said: 'More than 1,500 people came along to watch the events and they were looked after by more than 250 volunteers.

'All the feedback we have had indicates this was the most successful games yet.'

The Ellesmere Port and Neston team, sponsored by Shell UK, put together a strong squad and tasted victory in both the Year 7-9 badminton and the Year 10-11 badminton.

They also came out on top in the basketball. The borough's athletes finished second, as did their Year 7-8 netball squad and their boys' hockey squad.

As well as the event awards, Ellesmere Port narrowly missed out on the overall fair play award after the borough's two netball teams scooped fair play prizes. Chester secured three in other sports to take the title.

Sarah Nancollas added: 'Ellesmere Port has been a great venue for the games and has set a standard that other authorities must now live up to.

'The games have evolved in the last three years and have grown into the third largest event of it's kind in the area.

'It has moved on a lot in three years and we must now continue that progress.'

The Port's farewell to the games looked as though it might have been spoiled by the weather, but the rain held off enabling the crowds and competitors to enjoy the contest.

Michelle Aspden, Ellesmere Port and Neston Borough Council youth sport development officer, said: 'It was a good day and the weather didn't dampen spirits.

'Our teams did really well, winning three events, and we're very proud of them. They also won several fair play awards, so we are pleased they competed with the right spirit and that everyone enjoyed the day.

'Our thanks go to all our volunteers and sports clubs who helped and our team sponsor, Shell UK.'