Thousands of teenagers and young adults across North Yorkshire are to benefit from a new sports programme that “inspires young people to choose sport”, writes Martin Durrant.

Sportivate will give 14 to 25-year-olds the chance to receive six to eight weeks coaching in a sport of their choice.

“Sportivate provides a great opportunity for people aged between 14 and 25 to get a quality introduction to a coached sport,” said North Yorkshire Sport executive director David Watson.

“Whether that is in a sport they have never tried or one they are returning to, this programme offers a wealth of options.”

Thanks to £400,000 of National Lottery investment in North Yorkshire, about 4,000 local people will be able to take part in activities such as dance, climbing, mountain biking, swimming and many more sports.

It is not only the participants who will benefit from this programme.

Watson added: “The programme also provides clubs and organisations with the chance to increase their membership and appeal to a wider audience through the development of new sessions and coaching.”

Those who remain regular participants have the opportunity to win tickets to the London 2012 Olympic Games.

For more information on Sportivate, phone George Cull on 01423 556437 or email george.cull@harrogate.gov.uk