HUNDREDS of school children will run, jump, swim, kick and cheer their way onto the podium as the second Leigh Games gets under way today, Thursday.

Pupils from primary schools from the east of the borough will descend on Leigh Sports Village for a chance to win a gold, silver or bronze medal in activities ranging from cheerleading to touch rugby.

The day will begin and end with Olympic-style opening and closing ceremonies.

Lesley McGreevy, Wigan East school games organiser, said: “I see this year’s event as a stepping stone to linking the event more closely with Trust in Leigh next year so that it becomes a genuine community event.

“I have called this event Living the Legacy and the children will all get a wrist band that says this. It gives us an opportunity to really celebrate children’s sport and competitions and raise the profile of the positive impact it can have on their lives.”

The facilities have been donated free by Leigh Harriers, WLCT, Premier Sports and Leigh East and more than 100 volunteers from Wigan and Leigh College will be helping out on the day.

For live coverage from Leigh Sports Viliage visit our live blog.