Budding DJs and sport stars are being given the chance to shine thanks to new sessions in Newton Aycliffe.

Great Aycliffe and Middridge Area Action Partnership has come together with Durham County Council’s Sport and Leisure Services to offer Aycliffe young people the chance to try new sport and leisure facilities for a small, nominal fee.

Many youngsters don’t have the opportunity to try new sports or activities because of financial constraints and others come from families which don’t get involved in sport.

The sessions will begin in September at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre and qualified staff will deliver sessions such as kayaking, rock climbing, DJ workshops, boot camps, swimming and zumba.

During the summer holidays staff from Sport and Leisure Services and the council’s One Point Service will be working with youngsters to allow them to be involved in deciding which activities and sports they want to be included in the project.

Brian Riley, GAMP coordinator, said: “This is a fantastic project which we were happy to support as it will break down barriers which some families face and which may stop young people getting into sport.”

As well as trying out new sports, young people will be offered the chance to meet socially on a weekly basis with the support of youth leaders from Durham County Council’s One Point Service who will be on hand to address any concerns the young people may want to discuss. GAMP has given £4,227 to support the project.

Anyone interested in taking part in any of the sessions should contact Lesley Tindale, Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre Manager on 01325 300 500.