SCHOOL teams from across west Cumbria went head to head in a Lego technology contest.

The First Lego League returned ‘in person’ for the first time since the pandemic began and was held at Lakes College.

Organised by C-STEM, it is a global robotics challenge aimed at 9-16 year olds, where pupils are tasked to solve real life problems with the help of a Lego robot.

Fran Ward, director, said: “Our first ever FIRST LEGO League was held at Lakes College seven years ago, it seemed a fitting venue for our first ‘in person’ final since the start of the pandemic.

“I’m absolutely bowled over by the level of creativity and the manner in which our schools delivered all aspects of the competition this year. The competition suffered during the pandemic as the real magic happens when you have all the teams together collaborating.

“It's great to be back. It was a dramatic and fitting return to the venue where it all started eight years ago and our schools did not disappoint.

“I’d like to add a huge thank you to the teachers and support staff who have all worked hard to make this happen. The event wouldn’t be possible without the support of the amazing volunteers who helped judge and referee.”

Whitehaven News: It was the first time the event had been held 'in person' since the pandemicIt was the first time the event had been held 'in person' since the pandemic (Image: Submitted)

Pupils from Eaglesfield Paddle CE Primary Academy were named the winners and will go on to compete in the national finals in Harrogate next month.

Other prize-winners included St Bees School, which won the Robot Performance Award.

The team’s head coach, Ann Stott, said: “These girls have worked incredibly hard all year leading up to this event and that hard work definitely paid off.

“We might not have made it to the National Final this year but to take home one of the top awards is an absolute testament to each of the girls on the team.

“I am very proud of all of them and can’t wait to see what they come up with next year!”

Whitehaven News: St Bees School were among the prizewinners St Bees School were among the prizewinners (Image: Submitted)

Ms Ward added: “Next year we will be back with this competition, bigger, stronger, with more teams. The goal is to provide Cumbria schools with the opportunity to compete on the world stage.”

READ MORE: St Bees School pupils win top award at Lego League event