YOUNGSTERS at a Darlington school are climbing high thanks to new equipment.

Children at the Federation of Abbey Schools were overjoyed when they returned from their Easter break to find climbing walls installed.

Two ‘traverse’ walls have been erected using funds from a government grant, allowing children to safely clamber to new heights.

Headteacher George Ford said the popular playground additions have been in almost constant use since they were installed.

He said: “The children were very excited to return from their holidays to find these in place.

“Playtime and lunch time saw everyone wanting a turn – we have 630 children on site and they can all access these walls.”

Claiming he would probably end up trying out the walls himself, he added: “Pupils can use them whenever they want and they’re another opportunity for children to be active and develop physically.

“It’s something a bit different and an opportunity for them to test themselves.

"These walls are 'traverses' and enable children to move across them with feet just a few inches

above the ground. They will enhance fitness and wellbeing and may even introduce children to a

love of rock climbing."

Eight-year-old Jacob Mallinson said: “I know the walls are making my muscles bigger and my arms stronger.”

Fellow pupil Charlotte Rayner, nine, added: “It’s really challenging and I’m determined not to fall off.”