Children and adults with Down's syndrome had a sporting day to remember at a leisure centre this weekend.

Wentworth Leisure Centre was brimming with activities, laughter and competitiveness for the 50 or so people who attended the event, which was organised by Northumberland County Council and Places Leisure on behalf of Downs Syndrome North East (DSNE).

The sporting event was part of a series to mark the 21st year of DSNE, a charity run by parent volunteers.

Apart from offering a variety of engaging activities for all participants, the event also gave the organising staff an opportunity to have interactions with the families.

This helped them understand the current sports provisions accessed by these families across the county and if there are any areas that require more attention.

Cllr Jeff Watson handed out the certificatesCllr Jeff Watson handed out the certificates (Image: Supplied)

Ronne Scheu, disability and inclusion officer for Northumberland County Council’s sports development team, said: "The day was a fantastic success with everyone having fun and it was great to welcome some new faces to our Ability2Play family.

"Thank you to everyone who came along, either to take part or to help out and make the day such a memorable one."

Councillor Jeff Watson, cabinet member for promoting healthy lives, said: "It is important that we all try and develop a positive relationship with exercise and physical activity to reap the many benefits this brings.

"This is just as important for children and adults who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

"As well as having a really positive impact on their well-being, it also gives them a sense of belonging and breaks down inequalities that those with a disability may potentially face.

"It was such a great day and I’m delighted that such a great day was had by everyone taking part."

Northumberland County Council runs an inclusive activity programme through its Ability2Play scheme for people with special educational needs and disabilities.

More information about the scheme can be obtained by emailing ability2play@northumberland.gov.uk.

The council has also launched a website meant to be an information hub for parents and caregivers, which can be found at www.northumberlandsend.co.uk.