FUTURE sporting stars were crowned the winners of a special netball tournament.

Pupils in years five and six from Birkenhead School showed off their skills at the Vitality Netball World Cup Legacy's North West School Tournament on Thursday, June 13 to be crowned winners of the event.

Sponsored by Liverpool ONE, the event saw youngsters from across the North West come together to represent a country competing in this year's Vitality Netball World Cup.

More than 300 schoolchildren took part in the tournament at Liverpool Tennis Centre.

Hayley Sewell, head of girls’ sport at Birkenhead Prep School, which represented Singapore at the event, told the Globe: “We’re extremely proud of our pupils for winning in their age category and they thoroughly enjoyed the day.

“We’re all really looking forward to the Netball World Cup coming to Liverpool and this schools event has helped drum up excitement even more!”

Taking place in Liverpool from 12 and 21 July, the Vitality Netball World Cup will see 16 teams from across the globe land in Merseyside for the competition.

Netball development officer at England Netball Louise Moss said: “There’s a fantastic buzz in Liverpool and the surrounding areas as the Vitality Netball World Cup draws closer.

“The schools tournament was a great way to unite schools from across the region and encourage pupils to get involved.

“As a team sport, netball can help youngsters develop their confidence and build many transferable skills that can be applied in various fields.

"We were overwhelmed by the level of talent and enthusiasm those competing on the day showed, so we’re incredibly grateful to them for showing their support and also to Liverpool ONE for funding the opportunity.”

As part of the Vitality Netball World Cup, Liverpool ONE's Chavasse Park will play host to an official Fan Park.

The Fan Park will give visitors the chance to cheer on teams with live televised matches and a whole host of entertainment throughout the tournament.

Donna Howitt, marketing director at Liverpool ONE, said: “It’s no surprise netball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and watching so many young people get involved was really inspiring.

"The schools tournament was the perfect way to begin the countdown to the main event.

“We’d like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who took part and, of course, congratulations to our winners!”