CHURCH Stretton School came out on top in a West Mercia Police tag rugby event.

The pupils beat Castlefields Primary School in Bridgnorth at Droitwich RFU.

A total of 24 schools from across Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Telford & Wrekin competed in the initiative that enables the police to interact with youngsters.

The RFU is now selecting the top local teams to go to the regional tournament and ultimately the Tag 2 Twickenham national final in Warwickshire next month.

"It was a fantastic day and was wonderful to see so many children from schools across the force area displaying a really enthusiastic and positive attitude, whether they won or lost," said Superintendent Mark Travis, who handed out the medals.

“Church Stretton were worthy champions and we wish them every success.”

West Mercia Police have been developing the tag rugby initiative since 2002 in partnership with the RFC and Child Victims of Crime.

Local policing officers and community support officers are then trained to deliver coaching and run tournaments.

Tag rugby is also an opportunity for the police to promote their 'tackle safety' programme, which educates youngsters in personal safety, preventing children from falling victim to crime or bullying and helping to boost their confidence and self-esteem.

It also helps them develop a life-long love of exercise and teaches them about team-work and socialising.