THIS year's Worces-tershire Youth Games have been hailed as one of the most successful of its kind in the West Midlands.

Regional director of Sport England, John Roberts, has congratulated staff at Wychavon District Council on their management of the games, held in Droitwich Spa on Sunday May 20.

More than 600 young competitors from across the county turned out for the day with the warm weather tempting out a further 1,500 spectators.

The event was promoted as a fun day for the whole family and included a live concert featuring several pop bands and a host of children's entertainment.

Mr Roberts said: "I was impressed with the partnership the district council has with the Wychavon Leisure Association, Droitwich High School and Westacre Middle School.

"It was an ideal venue and the view from the school across the activity area through to the artificial pitch and King George Playing Fields was spectacular.

"The event undoubtedly demonstrated what can be achieved in partnership at a local level as well as the value of all the local authorities working together to provide quality opportunities for young people."

Wychavon sports development officer Steve Brewster said: "Fundamentally, this was a sporting event and we were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm shown throughout the day in all events. It was about much more than winning. There was a great buzz about the place and many examples of good sportsmanship."