A NETBALL club has been set up for children in east Durham.

Peterlee Netball Club has been created to offer weekly, low-cost sessions for youngsters.

Around 50 children aged nine and upwards are expected to benefit from the club, which meets at Peterlee Leisure Centre.

A £500 grant from believe housing’s community fund has helped to pay for set up costs including first aid training and professional coaching costs while the club’s own coaches became qualified.

The group is the first and only official netball group offering coaching for eight to 16 olds between Sunderland and Hartlepool.

It is hoped it will create new opportunities for youngsters in the area who previously could not take part in the sport locally, as well as the opportunity to progress to recognised league competitions.

Carole Lister, from Peterlee Netball Club, said: “The kids are loving it, and already their confidence is visible and their technical skills are improving each week.

“Their social skills have also improved making new friends from other schools. We feel privileged to be part of it all.

“Netball is very much in the public eye now since winning the world cup and more kids want to be involved in the sport. “Schools have welcomed us with open arms, and I am proud to say that we are now able to offer our east Durham kids this opportunity.”

Anyone interested in playing netball, or getting involved, can contact the club on 0777-055-4232.