Image: The new scheme will boost community clubs

Sport England has announced the launch of the new Club Leaders programme, which aims to help 10,000 community clubs across the country in developing improved business skills.

The initiative has been established to offer free training and support to those involved in the day-to-day operation of community sport, while also creating an enterprising club network.

Club Leaders will have the chance to develop business and financial planning skills, as well as marketing, governance and facilities management in ways that benefit their groups.

A Learning Bus will tour the country - initially along the route of the Olympic Torch Relay - to reach rural and inner city areas. PricewaterhouseCoopers is delivering the Club Leaders scheme.

Sport England chief executive Jennie Price said: "We asked the people who run clubs what they needed most, and their advice has guided every aspect of the Club Leaders offer."

Hugh Robertson, minister for sport and the Olympics, added: "This training and support offered by Sport England will help people develop the broad range of skills they need to run a successful and dynamic sports club."

Details: www.sportenglandclubleaders.com