STAFF and pupils at a Blackrod school are celebrating after achieving Active Mark Gold status.

The sports provision at Blackrod Church School has been recognised with the Sport England award, which will be valid for three years. The national award recognises schools that have shown a commitment to promoting the benefits of physical activity.

Kirsten Gradwell, PE co-ordinater at the Vicarage Road West school, has been working towards the award for the last six months.

Headteacher James Royal said: "We went for the award because we realised that what we already do here is of a high standard and that with a bit more work and effort from everybody we could push the grade.

"I think it's important to cover a broad range of sports and activities, both in school and out of school hours, across the whole school."