STUDENTS studying the Level 3 Sports Diploma at West Somerset College recently visited the Commonwealth Games site in Manchester.

The annual trip included a sports science lecture at the Etihad Stadium on the Regeneration of East Manchester and Sports Analysis at Manchester City FC.

The students also watched the National Squash Championships and saw Nick Matthew on his way to winning the national title for a record fifth time.

They also visited the National Cycling Centre and were put through their paces on one of the largest indoor BMX tracks in the world, which recently hosted the European finals.

British Cycling coach Nicky Hughes was impressed with several of the students as they took on the full track after a BMX workshop.

Students also enjoyed tours of the Etihad Stadium and the Manchester Aquatics Centre, a trip to Old Trafford, a visit to the English Institute of Sport and some leisure time at the Trafford Centre.

“I believe its so important to show our young students the opportunities that are awaiting those who have the confidence and necessary skills,” said course tutor Jonathan Reed.

“This was the fifth year that students from West Somerset have benefitted from the opportunity to see some of the best sports facilities in the country.