IT was heartwarming to see photographs of pupils at Clevelands Preparatory School in Heaton at their school sports day.

There were all the traditional events — the obstacle race, the sack race and even, my favourite, the egg and spoon race.

And let’s hope that lovely competitive spirit is replicated in primary schools around the borough as the prelude to the long Summer holidays.

Those who believe competition is bad for children should witness the joy it regularly brings on sports’ days.

Youngsters thrive on getting their chance to shine, and even learning to lose is an important life lesson.