Bradford was labelled the fat capital of the United Kingdom not so long ago.

Now it appears, from the entry to this year's 11th annual MLC Bingley Harriers' Schools Cross-Country race, that all is not doom and gloom within the city.

Indeed, if the evidence of the Myrtle Park event is examined more closely, it looks as if there are plenty of fit and healthy youngsters in and around Bradford.

The Government, local councils and sports' governing bodies are pushing for youngsters to take exercise and get fit, and the city of Bradford has shown from last week's turnout that youngsters in the area can compete in friendly, organised competition.

A total of 63 schools were taking part at Myrtle Park and they received support from Bradford Council's b active campaign.

An amazing 936 children were entered for the races and there were some extremely competitive events, and the weather was kind to the youngsters with the rain staying away until after the last races.

The event, and the continued Bingley Harriers' young athlete development programme, will benefit from the sponsorship of local builders MLC Construction Ltd and the important age-group sponsors.

The races attracted some new schools - and some newcomers went home with prestigious trophies.

Reports indicate that the schools and athletes really enjoyed the event and Bingley Harriers have had several inquires from enthusiastic parents who would like their children to become more involved.

Congratulations have gone to all who took part, as well as thanks to the sponsors, Bradford Council, and the teachers for their support, and to the army of volunteer helpers on the day.

Results, Year Five - Girls (sponsored by C R Taylor Timber Ltd): 1 Abby Parkinson (Bradford Grammar), 2 Elizabeth Ayre (Bradford Grammar), 3 Molly Foster (East Morton Primary). Team: Bradford Grammar. Boys (sponsored by Lockwood Macintyre Decorations): 1 Joshua Ferguson (Haworth Primary), 2 John Lockwood (Hothfield Primary), 3 James Woodward (Westville House). Team: Haworth Primary.

Year Six - Girls (sponsored by Wood Janus Building Design): 1 Natalie Brown (Bradford Grammar), 2 Helen Wood (Menston Primary), 3 Lucy Worrall (Moorfield). Team: Menston Primary. Boys (sponsored by Gray Spur): 1 James Hall (Eldwick Primary), 2 Edward Brownlee (Bradford Grammar), 3 James Lee (Nessfield Primary). Team: Bradford Grammar.

Years Seven & Eight - Girls (sponsored by JMB Scaffolding Ltd & Express Trade Windows): 1 Jenny Bonson (Parkside GS), 2 Arriana Zenti (Parkside GS), 3 Rosie Hellawell (Holy Family). Team: Bingley GS. Boys (sponsored by Multiskill): 1 Issa Muvunyi (Grange TC), 2 Faisal Ismall (Emystead's GS), 3 Luke Fleetwood (Oakbank). Team: Ermysted's GS.

Years Nine & Ten - Girls (sponsored by M Halliday & Sons): 1 Carly Robertson (Oakbank), 2 Holly Craig (Salt GS), 3 Rebecca McLean (Holy Family). Team: Ilkley GS. Boys (sponsored by Access Garage Doors): 1 Danny Makinson (Parkside GS), 2 John Golson (Ermysted's GS), 3 Andrew Cairns (Ermysted's GS). Team: Ermysted's GS).

Years 11, 12 & 13 - Girls (sponsored by Wilkinson & Co Plumbers Merchants Ltd): 1 Alice Fulton (Beckfoot), 2 Eleanor Kitchen (Ilkley GS), 3 Chloe Haines (Ilkley GS). Team: Ilkley GS. Boys (sponsored by Crowley Hillcroft Investments Ltd): 1 Tom Anderson (Ermysted's GS), 2 Tom Crowley (St Bede's), 3 Hector Haines (Ilkley GS). Team: Ermysted's GS.