A SPORTS group aimed at fathers has been launched.

The Supporting Parents Network (SPAN) is running weekly sports sessions in Stanley and Consett.

The events, open to all dads in Derwentside, feature an hour of activity, followed by an hour of refreshments and socialising.

The project, funded by County Durham Foundation, aims to make fathers take their role model status seriously, get fitter and also raise awareness of local issues that men face.

Activities arranged so far include snooker, boxercise and five-aside football, with plans to introduce squash and ten-pin bowling.

Funding for the sessions lasts until the end of November and places are limited. For details or to book a place, contact Tom Clark on (01207) 281310.