SPORTS stars from a Basingstoke primary school were presented with new kits and trophies at a special celebration of achievement.

Members of the Maple Ridge Sharks football team, from Maple Ridge School, in Oakridge, were able to pick up their bright yellow and green team shirts, which are in the style of the Brazil home kit, at the celebration day, held at the Holiday Inn, in Grove Road, after a successful plea for team sponsors in The Gazette.

Andy Yule, football coach at Maple Ridge, said: "After appearing in the paper, we thought we might have one or two potential sponsors come forward, but the response was overwhelming. We must have had 20 companies and individuals contact us and offer support."

The Basingstoke Round Table, Ripton Windows, Holiday Inn and IT company Gladiator IT are now the team's official sponsors, with each organisation sponsoring a different part of the kit, which was chosen after a team vote.

As well as collecting their new personalised kits, pupils had the chance to meet Father Christmas and have a meal at the hotel, which laid on the event free of charge.

Mr Yule said: "This is the first time we have held the celebration event like this. It is great to see the children get such a confidence boost."