A RIBBLE Valley project which aims to get youngsters off the streets and into sports has reached the final of a national competition.

Tony Rodia, manager of the Roefield Leisure Centre, Clitheroe, masterminded weekly sports sessions for youngsters aged 12 to 15.

Time Out youth sports gives teenagers the chance to play badminton and football and try their hands at rock climbing and self defence, as well as other sports.

In December, Tony entered the contest organised by the NHS, which has a top prize of £3,000, and had to write an article about how the sessions were set up and how popular they have become with local youngsters.

The Edisford Road centre is one of six projects across the country chosen from the 123 entries for the final.

Next Wednesday, Tony will give a presentation about Time Out at the Haydock Thistle Hotel, near St Helens.

Tony said: "I was originally given £1,000 by CommuniCare to set up the scheme, but because we are a registered charity, it is difficult to secure funding. It would be great if we could win the first prize of £3,000 or the second prize of £1,000 to develop youth sports. Time Out drags youngsters away from pavements and PlayStations and gets them doing regular exercise."

The scheme first started in June last year and the centre is shut to the public every Saturday between 5pm and 6.30pm for the youngsters.

"It is so popular that we have about 50 youngsters who come regularly," said Tony.

Kirsty Hamer is pictured holding the confirmation letter of the centre's success, to the delight of the youngsters.

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