ELLESMERE Port held its inaugural Schools Partnership Rugby Festival at Whitby High School in partnership with Stanney Sports College as part of the School Sports Coordinator Programme.

After an enthralling group phase featuring 23 schools from across the partnership area, Woodlands defeated Woodfall in the final with a golden try deciding the outcome after the two teams could not be separated.

The Fair Play Award for outstanding sporting behaviour was just as keenly contested with Alvanley eventually coming out on top.

Year 10 students from both high schools helped out on the day, supervising and providing coaching for the young players.

Chris Parker of Whitby High School said: 'It was a fantastic turnout and everybody thoroughly enjoyed the event, from the young people out on the pitch to those working behind the scenes. We have received lots of positive feedback about the competition. Hopefully we can build on what we have achieved and make next year's festival even bigger and better.'

As a result of lifting the trophy, Woodlands will now go on to represent the borough in the Cheshire Youth Games to be held in Ellesmere Port on Saturday, June 25.