YOUNGSTERS have been given a sporting chance to get into the Olympic spirit – thanks to the Archbishop of York.

Dr John Sentamu threw open the gates of Bishopthorpe Palace, his official residence, yesterday, to welcome about 130 pupils from primary schools across the city and their teachers as the countdown to the London 2012 Games nears its conclusion.

The Olympic-themed afternoon saw a series of workshops being run for the Year Six pupils, who are preparing to start secondary school this year, with the activities including the opportunity for children to explore their musical side through drumming and rapping, a British baking challenge and a session on leadership run by the Archbishop of York’s Youth Trust.

The event was also attended by the Lord Mayor of York, Coun Keith Hyman, and the Sheriff of York, Coun Paul Firth, who took a look around the five workshops with Dr Sentamu.

The Lord Mayor also spoke to the pupils about the York 800 celebrations, which are marking eight centuries since the city was granted its Royal Charter from King John and the start of local democracy in the city.

Dr Sentamu said the aim of the day was to allow the pupils to “have lots of fun and learn something new” ahead of going to secondary school in September, and to give them “encouragement” rather than medals.

“Like the Olympic marathon runner, if you want to be the best, then dedication is what you need,” he said.

The Archbishop told them: “With God, you should always aim high, because absolutely anything is possible.”