BOOTHAM Schools's judo players really got to grips with their North Yorkshire rivals.

They were joint winners of the county championships in York with Leyburn School and won a total of six medals.

Leading the way was Derek Lam, who was named 'man of the match' for the best throw of the competition which will give him the chance of winning a place in the National Schools squad.

Gero von Bismark, Hannah Feehan and Lam all won gold medals with Chris Watterson taking silver while Matthew Sowerby and Cai Lansdown were awarded bronze in their events.

Bootham headmaster Ian Small said: "Judo is a popular sport at the school and we are delighted with the whole team's success. We're now firmly keeping our fingers crossed for Derek Lam and the national team".

Updated: 08:59 Wednesday, December 10, 2003