Special medals for good sports

A GROUP of people with learning difficulties have
received awards for their determination and excellent attendance at a weekly sports scheme.
Sport For Life was developed to keep older people active. A weekly session, run by sport activators Bethany Webb and Daniel Newell, for people with learning difficulties  has been particularly well supported at West Auckland Memorial Community Centre.
Starting with only two participants about six months ago, the group now boasts a small crowd at each session.
Mr Newell said: “Initially it was for people 50-plus but we have allowed it to morph into what it is. We now have 15 to 20 people aged from about 20 to 60.”
The programme is funded by Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership, but the sport activators dug into their own pockets for a special Christmas session.
They chipped in to buy medals for each of the participants and, along with help from their families, prepared treats including cakes and sandwiches for a party.
Mr Newell paid tribute to community centre secretary Dave Williamson, who not only supports the group tremendously, but also introduced many people to the Sport For Life sessions.
For more information about Sport For Life contact Marie Urwin by emailing  marie.urwin@durham.gov.uk.