Watford District had five top-three results at the 20th Herts Youth Games, held at Wodson Park Sports Centre on Sunday.

Approximately 1,000 young athletes, ranging in age from eight to 18, represented their districts in 11 different sports, with Watford tasting success in boys and girls hockey, badminton, fencing and girls football.

For the boys hockey, victories over North Herts, St Albans and East Herts in the group stages saw Watford progress to the final and a re-match with East Herts, who were duly dispatched 2-0.

In the girls’ event, wins against North Herts and St Albans made up for a 1-0 defeat against East Herts, meaning the girls qualified for the final.

East Herts were the final opposition once more but normal time and extra time both finished goalless. A count back was required to decide the winner, with East Herts’ win over Watford in the group stage earning them gold.

More than 70 young people from Hertsmere also took part, with the district claiming silver in athletics and bronze in table tennis. Hertsmere just missed out on medals in tag rugby and fencing and also competed in basketball, badminton, boccia, boys’ hockey and girls’ football.

Councillor Brenda Batten, Hertsmere’s portfolio holder for leisure, culture and health, said: “Sport is a great way for young people to be active and have fun and the Herts Youth Games is a fantastic event.

“Winning is an important part of competitive sport but it’s also the taking part that counts. There is a great spirit at the event and it was great to witness the sea of smiling faces especially from Team Hertsmere.

“For some it was their first experience of competitive sport and as a result lots of them go on to join local clubs afterwards which just goes to show the power of sport and the event.

“Thanks go to everyone who took part, including our volunteers and volunteer team managers.”

Event organiser Tony Marmo commented: “The Herts Youth Games aims to attract semi-sporty young people into competitive sport so it is fantastic to see so many people having a great time.

“The atmosphere has been amazing with a great team spirit of enthusiasm and fair play, with lots of support from around 1,500 spectators made up of families and friends. I know that many of those taking part will be inspired to continue to develop their skills and compete at a higher level.”