Students braved the rapids at the venue that hosted the London 2012 whitewater games.

Students of Davenant Foundation School in Chester Road, Loughton, were among 500 children from London, Hertfordshire and Essex rafting for free on Wednesday (July 8) on the same rapids on which Team GB won gold and silver medals.

The schools festival, at the Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Abbey also gave the students a chance to kayak, cycle, have mini tennis sessions, multi-skill football sessions as well as team building activities.

Chairman of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, Derrick Ashley, said: “Since 2011, when the centre opened, the annual Schools Festivals at Lee Valley White Water Centre have given thousands of young people the chance to try white water rafting for free and we’re proud to provide these opportunities.

“Ten years on from the announcement of London’s successful bid and three years after hosting the London 2012 Canoe Slalom event Lee Valley White Water is a shining example of a successful sporting legacy."