Primary school pupils from across York will be learning to keep their hearts healthy with York City Knights thanks to support from Yorkshire’s own Heart Research UK.

The heart charity has given a grant of £7,000 to enable about 1,500 year four pupils to take part in the four-week programme of workshops and coaching with the rugby league team.

The project will end with them being officially knighted by club mascot, Norris The Knight.

The workshops will include presentations and exercises to get their hearts beating faster through team games.

Jack Stearman, community development officer at York City Knights, said: “We think that it is important to inform children at a young age, about the importance of looking after their hearts and leading a healthy lifestyle. These interactive workshops will be a fun way for children to learn about the heart and how to keep it healthy.”

Barbara Harpham, lifestyle manager at Heart Research UK, said: “I’m delighted that the York City Knights have received a Healthy Heart Grant and wish them all the best with their project. The programme will help children in the city understand heart health issues, ensuring they have an awareness of the benefits of leading a healthy, active lifestyle.”