AN Olympic legend used his years of expertise to help launch a £100,000 rowing initiative involving schools and colleges in a North-East town.

The Steve Redgrave Fund has given the grant to supply rowing machines to get youngsters active and tackle obesity.

Yesterday, the five-time Olympic champion was in Middlesbrough to watch 16 teams take on the rowing machine challenge.

Sir Steve said: “It’s been fantastic to see everyone take to the machines with such enthusiasm. The great thing about this initiative is that it is something that all pupils can get involved in – especially appealing to those who consider themselves ‘non-sporty’.

“I’m sure it will become a positive force in the schools and show the benefits of getting involved and being active, which is the longterm result we’re looking for.”

The fund, which is now running alongside Sport Relief, has already set up projects in Birmingham, Cardiff and Glasgow.

The launch event saw the youngsters taking on a time trial to show the benefits of exercise and teamwork to tackle obesity.

Sir Steve said: “One of the things that we want to tackle is obesity in young children and this a good way to get them active.”

Oakfields Community College principal Michael Hutton said: “The rowing scheme adds a new and exciting dimension to our current PE curriculum. I am sure it will motivate and challenge students.”