Tees Valley Leisure has launched a new scheme offering children under the age of 16 the opportunity to participate in a range of leisure activities for free each evening.

The project, being piloted at Eston Sports Academy, includes spinning, swimming, basketball, five-a-side football, table tennis and netball sessions, held between 4-8pm every evening for two weeks. Further activities are available at the weekends.

The scheme has received £9,000 in funding from Cleveland Police Authority, Redcar & Cleveland Council, Coast and Country Housing and Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council Department of Neighbourhood Services.

The police hope the initiative will get youngsters off the streets and help tackle anti-social behaviour.

Councillor McLuckie, chairman of Cleveland Police Authority, said: “We are delighted to work in partnership with Redcar & Cleveland Council, Tees Valley Leisure and Coast and Country Housing to encourage youngsters to lead healthy and crime free lives.

“There are so many leisure activities on offer at Eston Sports academy for youngsters – something for everyone –and we are urging youngsters to sign up. The activities are fun and enjoyable and it’s a great way for young people to get off the streets, meet new friends, get fit and stay healthy.”

Ian Donley, operations manager for Tees Valley Leisure, said: “The response so far has been fantastic and all the children who have taken part have thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

“With the support of our partners, we are committed to offering free leisure activities to ensure that kids reap the benefits of schemes like these.”