Four Bradford schools have made their mark on the sports field.

Buttershaw and Rhodesway Schools and Yorkshire Martyrs Catholic College have been awarded a Sport England Sportsmark award, and Tong School has received a Sportsmark Gold Award with Distinction.

The four are among 371 schools across the country to receive the award, with Tong being one of only two to achieve Gold with Distinction.

The awards recognise high standards and commitment to physical education and sports provision both during the school day and as extra-curricular activities.

Yorkshire Martyrs and Tong schools have particularly welcomed the award as they have been shortlisted by the Department for Education and Employ-ment as Specialist Sports Colleges. The final decision will be made in June and both schools are being backed by the South Bradford Education Action Zone.

Tong head of sport and leisure, John Young, said: "The award of Sportsmark Gold is the culmination of a lot of hard work and is a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of a very strong department, in which the very highest standards are expected and maintained."

Head of PE at Yorkshire Martyrs, Andy Mullaney, said: "This award has been achieved in recognition of the efforts of the PE Department and the positive effect sport and PE plays in the life of our school community."

Cath Proud, head of PE at Rhodesway School, said: "It is something we are going to build on in the future and we are looking to further develop extra curricular activities."

Mike Rimmer, head of PE at Buttershaw, said he was thrilled at receiving the award, especially as the school's facilities were in need of improvement.

"We're really pleased what we are doing is being recognised. It's a fantastic honour for the staff and the department."

Trevor Brooking, Chair of Sport England, said schools played a vital role in fostering young people's enjoyment, confidence and basic sports skills.

"These schools are to be applauded for their consistent efforts in making sure our youngsters are keeping fit and healthy," he said.