More coaches to encourage sports

The North East is to receive £1.3m of sports funding after the government highlighted lower than average levels of participation in the region.

Sport England North East will use the cash to create 69 new coaching posts within the community.

The agency hopes to attract more women, people on low income, people with long-term illnesses and ethnic minority communities to take part in sport.

The money was awarded through the Community Investment Fund

Judith Rasmussen, regional director at Sport England North East, said: "Coaches are important to encourage participation and provide expert tuition.

"Good coaches are a fundamental link in the delivery system for sport and ensure activities are safe and enjoyable."