A DOORSTEP sport project aimed at getting young people more active, more often in their own communities is thriving in Barry.

Delivered by the Vale Council’s Sports Development team and Barry Communities First, the project provides activities “on the doorstep” for young people aged nine to 16 years who want to take part in sport.

The project was recently shortlisted for Street Games "New Project of the Year" at the UK awards ceremony, recognising the new activities that have been introduced as well as the new partnerships that have been developed.

And there was further success when the Friday Night Football project led by police community supports officers and dedicated local volunteers Scott Nelson and David Chambers won the Newydd 5-a-side football tournament, competing against teams from across South Wales.

With warmer weather on the way, there are a number of outdoor activities taking place.

Multi-sport events will be available at Pencoedtre Park, Gibbonsdown on Mondays from 4.30pm to 5.30pm, Victoria Park, Cadoxton on Mondays from 5.45pm to 6.45pm, Central Park every Thursday led by Elim Elevate from 4.30pm to 5.30pm, and Alexander Gardens on Fridays from 4.30pm to 5.30pm.

There will also be the Friday night football project on offer at Holm View with police community support officers and local volunteers from 3.45pm to 4.45pm for children aged 10 years and over.

And Communities First along with local volunteers will be running a bike club for people to learn how to ride a bike safely and develop their basic cycling skills. Sessions are led by qualified leaders and volunteers and are aimed at young people aged nine or over.

All sessions are currently free of charge and as there is no booking needed any young people interested in attending sessions can simply turn up.

These projects are delivered as part of the Vale Sport plan with the aim of increasing participation in sport and physical activity.

The project contributes towards the council’s aim of reducing health inequalities and ensuring residents are able to access the necessary services, information and advice to improve their wellbeing and quality of life.

A number of other partners are also involved in the delivery of the project including Vale Volunteer Bureau, Police Community Support Officers, Elim Elevate, World at Play and Newydd.

For further information, contact Sports Development Officer Rachel Shepherd on 07730 749485, Adele Twomey of Barry Communities First on 01446 709825, or visit www.barrystreetgames.org