Pupils take part in Rotary Technology Tournament

Students from across the district have taken part in an annual technology tournament.

The event has been organised by Rotary Clubs of Richmond, Northallerton, Northallerton Mowbray, Thirsk and Wensleydale for the last 15 years.

This year it was Richmond Rotary’s turn to lead the event.

This year the tournament attracted entrants from six schools — Barnard Castle School, Cundall Manor School, Bedale High School, Hurworth School, Richmond School and Sixth Form College, and Wensleydale School, with an age range of participants from 12 to 18 years in teams of four.

In addition, 2 REME companies participated as guest teams.

Richmond Rotarian Jos Huddleston said: “It was really great to see the young people involved again.

“Their energy, commitment and technical skills were tremendous and as ever we were very grateful for the contribution of colleagues from all the Rotary Clubs and in particular to the REME Depot at Catterick and Royal Engineers for their support and the provision of a superb venue.”

The Rotary Clubs were grateful for the support of schools in a year when they have faced so many difficult challenges and the sponsorship provided by the West Yorkshire Society of Architects.

The tournament involves planning and delivering a really challenging technical project that is then judged by a series of exacting criteria.

There are three levels according to age and the winners in each level receive a shield and book tokens.

This year’s winners were:

  • Foundation Level    –  Richmond School and Sixth Form College
  • Intermediate Level  –  Barnard Castle School
  • Advanced Level      –  Richmond School and Sixth Form College

The prizes were presented by Steven Ellis, Rotary District Governor, Susan Rogers Assistant District Governor and Major Steve Goose REME.

Richmond Rotary Club President Emma Fulton said: “Rotary Clubs are very committed to supporting their local communities and it is particularly worthwhile to be involved with such outstanding young people.

“This seems even more important this year at a time of widespread anxiety and it is great to think that our future is in the hands of such talented individuals.”