The London Youth Games have kicked off and Wandsworth has high hopes for its young athletes.

The games started off the nine month season of events, which include both school and community competitions across 30 different sports, with the Cross Country run at Parliament Hill.

The borough of Wandsworth has been one of the strongest performers across a range of sports the recent history of Europe’s largest youth festival.

They won the Jubilee Trophy for the first time in 2013 and retained the trophy in 2014 and 2015.

In 2016 they finished in 2nd place and are particularly strong in volleyball, judo, cross country and tennis.

Team GB volleyball players Peter and Dami Bakare used to compete for Wandsworth in the London Youth Games.

The competitions are part of the national School Games Programme.  

Cabinet member for community services Councillor Jonathan Cook said: “The Youth Games is a great way to bring together young people from across the borough and get them involved in competitive sport.

“I want to wish the very best of luck to all the young athletes taking part this year, and look forward to hearing of their successes.”

If you are interested in being involved in any of the sports, please contact Enable Leisure & Sport on 0208 871 6857 or via email on lyg@wandsworth.gov.uk