SCORES of Nepalese children and their parents took part in a sporting festival designed to forge links with the community.

More than 80 members of the Nepalese community attended a sports taster session at Risedale Sports and Community College.

The school, at Hipswell, near Catterick Garrison, opened its doors for an evening of sporting fun that included a Tae Kwon Do demonstration, basketball, volleyball, circuit training and badminton.

Schools sports co-ordinator Jo Shallow said: "As we live on an army base that encompasses many multi-racial communities, it is good to forge strong links as we all have much to offer and learn from each other."

The college’s associate principal, John Kelly, said: "The taster session has forged important links, shown off the excellent facilities at the school which are available to the public and promoted sport both for enjoyment and to boost health."

Ex-Gurkha Bini Kumar Gurung, a black belt in martial arts, led the Tae Kwon Do demonstration.

"There is a very strong sense of community among the Gurkhas and the Nepalese families who settle here," he said.

"The sports evening has been a fantastic opportunity to mix with the local community and everyone has had a most enjoyable time."