Oldbury Academy has been chosen to stage to national powerlifting championships.

Tomorrow (Saturday) the All England Seniors National Championship is being held at the school which will see the country’s stars of the sport descend on the town.

This event is usually held at the National Sports Centre, Lilleshall, but the centre is currently being refurbished.

Cabinet member for culture and leisure Councillor Linda Horton said it was a tremendous honour for Oldbury Academy, formerly known as Oldbury College of Sport.

She said: "This is the top level of the sport. We will have athletes who are going to compete at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

"It is a real achievement to be trusted with staging this very prestigious event and I know it will be an inspiration to young Sandwell athletes."

Next on the calendar is the British Schools Championship, which takes place on 3 March. This event will attract up to 100 top athletes from all over the country.

Councillor Horton said the honour was largely thanks to local coach and former international Sam Hayer and his excellent reputation and connections at national and international level in the sport.

Mr Hayer said: "I'm absolutely delighted. This is a real honour for Sandwell and what an opportunity for our youngsters starting out - to watch the best in the world close up.

"Our focus will be on future stars of the Olympics - building on the legacy of the Games."