A JUNIOR sports league has been given a massive cash boost.
The Calderdale-based Midnight League is set for grants of more than £300,000 this summer.
The league allows young people to participate in sports and lead healthy lifestyles.
Youngsters aged from 12 to 19 can take part in a range of sporting activities, including football, basketball, athletics, cheerleading, netball and street dancing.
More than half the grant – £175,000 – has come from the Football Foundation and £132,000 from Sport England, with extra funding from Pennine 2000 and Calderdale Council.
The funding will be spread over three years and it is hoped the scheme will continue beyond that.
Councillors hope the project will cut antisocial behaviour.
The league will start in June at a range of Calderdale sports facilities and will also provide opportunities for volunteering and coaching.
Clr Ian Cooper, community services portfolio holder, said: “This will be a great boost for the whole community by helping to keep young people occupied and enjoying the physical and mental benefits of sport.”
Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation added: “Sport is playing a central role in helping people to stay fit, strengthen communities and promote responsibility among young people.
David Gent, Regional Director of Sport England Yorkshire, said: “Sport England is delighted to be supporting the project to give young people the chance to get into sport, try out new sports and enjoy the many benefits that taking part in sport can bring.”
