BUDDING sports stars had the chance to show off their skills at the latest School Games in Swindon.

The event, the fourth School Games held in the town, featured sports such as tennis, touch rugby, athletics, swimming, gymnastics and football.

More than 700 youngsters from across the borough took part.

North Swindon MP, Justin Tomlinson, and Swindon Borough Council leader, David Renard (Con, Haydon Wick), were also on hand to watch games at Lydiard Park, along with England women's rugby world cup winner, Danielle Waterman, who opened the event.

Mr Tomlinson said: "It is always a huge honour to support the School Games in Swindon.

"Every year the games grow and more and more students from across the town benefit.

"This year's games are this biggest and best ever and I'm delighted that World Cup winner, Danielle Waterman, was on hand to celebrate the success."

The games are organised by the Wiltshire School Sport Partnership and funded by lottery grants, the council and sponsorship from Sainsbury's.

The Government has also provided £51 million in funding for the School Games project since its inception in addition to £150million School Sports Partnership project.

Councillor Renard said: “I am delighted to support the School Games and meet with inspirational athletes, volunteers and officials.

"As someone who is enthusiastic about sport and is also chairman of the Swindon Health and Wellbeing Board, I know how important sporting activity is for our nation’s and community’s health and mental wellbeing.

"So I am keen to take any opportunity to encourage participation.”