TWO Bolton schools have been presented with gold awards in recognition of the high quality sporting education they offer.

Sport England selected Claypool CP in Horwich and St James's CE School in Daisy Hill for the national Activemark gold Award.

Both have been shown to offer excellent sporting facilities and given a high profile to physical activity in the education environment.

Headteacher of Claypool school, Jenny Higson said: "We are very proud and delighted to be recognised with this award. It is a team effort from staff and parents who have given their time to help the children."

Offering a selection of sports, including football, rounders and cricket, Claypool have broadened their choice to include, aerobics and netball.

St James school also offers a large range of sports including judo and fencing, alongside more traditional activites.

Headteacher John Gregory said: "It recognises all the hard work by the staff and we could not have done any of this if we did not have the support of parents."

Bolton Parish Church primary school and Eatock CP have also received Activemark awards, but not to gold standard.