Children watching the start of one of the races this morning.

Belvedere buzzing for Westmeath Schools Cross Country

Hundreds of children were enjoying the Westmeath Schools Cross Country at Belvedere House and Gardens this morning, supported by their families and teachers.

Dozens of volunteers, recruited and organised by Mullingar Harriers Athletic Club, hosts of the event, were on hand to keep everything running smoothly.

The cheers of support for the runners as they took on the tough challenge of the cross country track were loud and enthusiastic.

The young runners took on distances of between 500 metres (first and second classs) and 2000 metres (secondary school for second year boys and older).