SCORES of children in Gainford enjoyed free sports sessions during the half-term thanks to their parish council.
Some 40 kids descended on the village recreation field to enjoy archery, an obstacles course, football and golf.
Hosted by coaches Kyle Swankie and Liam Ferguson, from Swankie Sports, the activities were organised by Gainford and Langton Parish Council.
Parish councillor Sarah Hannon said she was delighted by the turnout.
She said: “It has been so successful I want it to carry on in the summer.
“About 60 per cent of the children were not in school during the lockdown so this addresses the social deprivation they have suffered.
“Kyle [Swankie] is brilliant. We are so lucky to have him.”
Cllr Hannon added that similar events were arranged during three days in the weeks either side of Easter which was attended by 57 different children.
This was covered by the parish council’s youth provision fund which had not been used during the previous year because of Covid-19 lockdowns.
Last week’s activities were funded from the council’s reserves and there are plans to approach Teesdale Action Partnership for cash to cover full-day sessions in the summer holidays, Cllr Hannon said.
As well as keeping children active and providing them with social interaction, the scheme has also provided opportunities for budding coaches to gain experience.
Student Caroline Waldon, who lives in Gainford, earned credits to complete a university degree by working with the coaches.
Teesdale School pupils Charlie King and Jack Kelsey also gained experience by helping out.
Charlie, who is 13 and in Year 8, said: “It can go on my CV because I want to be a physiotherapist. It is also good to help because I like sport so much.”
Cllr Hannon concluded: “It works well on so many levels.”
