From 1 April, the Sport Development team working as part of Stockport Metropolitan Council will become part of Stockport Sports Trust.

The Sport Development team delivers projects with social inclusion objectives, as well as targeting people who have physical or health problems and providing specialist advice and support for families. The trust and sports development team have worked in partnership since the trust was created in 2002.

Councillor Shan Alexander, executive member for leisure at Stockport Council, said; "We are delighted that the Sports Development function will now become part of the Sports Trust. It makes sense that leisure for Stockport be approached on a united front, increasing the borough's reach and strengthening the approach to tackling issues such as obesity and associated health issues, through positive engagement in sport and physical activity." Malcolm McPhail, chief executive officer for Stockport Sports Trust, added: "It will provide an excellent platform in terms of expertise and experience and truly allow us to work with all ages and sections of the community to encourage more participation in leisure and physical activity for fun and health.

"We want to deliver and provide excellent opportunities that our communities can engage in allowing them to improve and maintain a healthier lifestyle."