YOUNGSTERS from schools across the region took on some tough challenges when they visited an Army barracks near York.

About 280 pupils from Yorkshire and Teesside were put through their paces in the Kings Division Schools Competition held at Queen Elizabeth Barracks, in Strensall.

The teams tackled a variety of challenges including aerial rope exercises, where balls had to be dropped on to targets from the air, an obstacle course, a mountain biking challenge, a Crystal Maze-style event and a general knowledge quiz.

Captain Andrew Adair, who organised the event, said: "This was the 13th challenge we have held and, as always, it was a huge success. The competitors tackled a range of contests that required the team-based approach that they would experience as members of the Army.

"All the contestants did extremely well and the competition was extremely close. I'm sure all the competitors had a great time and everyone certainly went home exhausted at the end of the day."

The winning team came from Archbishop Thurston School in Hull. Every pupil that took part was given a certificate of achievement.

Updated: 10:05 Saturday, September 22, 2001