A NEW project aiming to engage pupils in a range of new sports has been launched in Macclesfield.

The SportsInc project was launched in this area by five-time Paralympic cycling gold medallist Sarah Bailey MBE.

The borough-wide scheme opened at Wilmslow High School and will present participants with the chance to try out a host of sports and activities.

The multi-sport inclusion group, run by Macclesfield School Sports Partnership (SSP) is delighted that the project is being supported by Bailey, who gave youngsters an inspirational talk during the launch event outlining her 'Playground to Podium' career pathway.

All pupils that have a disability (ranging from physical and learning disabilities to visual and hearing impairments) and are in secondary education within the Partnerships Schools were invited to attend the launch and the subsequent club.

A taster day was also held at Poynton High School, during which participants could sample a range of activities.

The SSP also organised a trip to see the recent Visa Paralympic World Cup in Manchester.

SSP spokesman Rosie Harris said: "The hope is that, once established, the club can expand to eventually run at venues in Knutsford, Macclesfield, Poynton and Wilmslow on a weekly basis. "

The initial funding for the project has been obtained through the Big Lottery Fund and Sport England's Sporting Champions scheme.