Children from schools across Redbridge participated in a variety of sports at the Redbridge Mini-Games today.

More than 1,500 pupils from 38 schools took part in the day-long programme of competitive events at the Redbridge Sports Centre in Barkingside.

PE teachers and parents roared the children on from the sidelines as they took each other on in the early rounds of events including football, hockey and netball this morning.

Atul Gandhi, 48, of Denehurst Gardens in Woodford Green, was cheering his 11-year-old son Viraj on as he and his teammates from Bancroft’s School made a strong start to the six-a-side football competition.

He said: “I’m very proud of Viraj but they are all doing well and it’s heartening to see so many kids giving their all for their team.

“I’m here to cheer them all on, not just my son.”

Along with the sporting competitions children were given the chance to try their hand at events including handball and 3v3 basketball.

But it was the competitive events which created most excitement.

Aslam Hussain, a PE teacher at Aldersbrook School, delivered some last minute tactical advice to his netball side before sending them out for a quarter-final match.

He said: “You can see how much they are all enjoying themselves, it’s great.

“I think the competitive element is really good for them. It challenges them.

“Being competitive is an important life skill.

“But it’s not only about winning. Learning to be a good loser is also important because you don’t always get what you want in this life.”

The results of the games are still being collated but the winners of each event will go on to represent the borough at the London Mini-Games in Crystal Palace in July.

There will also be an overall winner, and award for the best small school and a fair play award.

Check back here for results tomorrow.