Students experienced a fast start to their new college year by enjoying a trip to the Paralympic Games.

South Cheshire College students from a cross section of courses visited the showcase event at the Olympic Park in London during the first week of term.

They experienced the unique atmosphere of the Games and watched live events such as athletics, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair tennis and goalball.

During their visit, the group also took part in a question and answer session with one of the basketball officials at the Games.

Sports Lecturer Chris Hollinshead co-ordinated the visit and was supported by Neil Greenhalgh, Quality Manager for the Business, Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism faculty and Faculty Co-ordinators Julie Taylor and Norma Roberts.

Chris said: "We were delighted to be able to offer this trip to students from across the College.

"The students all had a fantastic day and enjoyed seeing the live action unfold in the Olympic Stadium."

For Chris, the visit was the culmination of seven years of Olympic based activities during his time at South Cheshire College.

He joined the Crewe college on the day London won the bid and organised a trip for students to the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

A number of cross-college trips are offered to students throughout the College year which are organised by the Student Council.

Chris added: "The Olympic Games and Paralympic Games have captured the hearts and minds of the nation over the last month and students were delighted to be a part of it.

"They felt privileged to be part of such an amazing spectacle and atmosphere and it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for them."