PUPILS from Radipole Primary School have won this year's South Dorset Schools' Orienteering competition.

Four preliminary events were held in school grounds where around 80 Year Five and Six pupils from eight schools had the chance to enjoy different orienteering courses.

After brushing up on their skills during these activities the top teams competed against each other at the final held at the Nothe Gardens in Weymouth.

Radipole were the clear winners, with Chickerell and St Andrew's Primary schools tied in second. Other schools taking part were Conifers, St George's, Southwell, St Augustine's and Southill.

Individual winners were Radipole duo Ben Lawrence and Joe Forvague, with Ashley Simmonds and Christ-opher Walkinshaw from Chickerell in second place.

Eleanor Kershaw and Ellie Tate of Radipole were third while Nicola Powell and Chris Lewesden from St Andrew's came fourth.

This year, specialist electronic punching and timing equipment was used at all the events.

This kit was purchased by Wimborne Orienteers with help from a Lottery Awards for All' grant, specifically to use for schools orienteering, and has been much worn during the last two years within schools all over Dorset.

The events were organised by Di and John Tilsley from Wimborne Orienteers.

They said: "We are delighted that so many youngsters had the opportunity to enjoy the sport of orienteering. Thanks go to the teachers for bringing them along to these after-school sessions.

"Hopefully some of them may want to learn more and join an orienteering club to take part along with family and friends."

The Tisleys were assisted by a group of students from Weymouth College, who are doing an Orienteer-ing Young Leaders course as part of their Public Services National Diploma.

To find out more about local orienteering clubs and events visit the following websites.

Wimborne Orienteers: wimborne-orienteers.org.uk

Wessex Orienteering Club: wessex-oc.org

British Orienteering: britishorienteering.org.uk