YOUNG sports fans in Rochdale are being encouraged to make more of their weekend nights by going along to a new evening of action-packed activities.

Rochdale Council and Rochdale AFC Football in the Community have joined forces to put on a programme of sports-based activities for 11 to 17-year-olds in the hope it will give young people positive things to do, reducing boredom.

A range of events is being held at the football club on Friday evenings and Springhill High School on Saturdays.

Activities on offer include multi-sports events, football tournaments and skills coaching. There will also be gym circuit training as well as IT and internet sessions and space to chill out with friends.

The locations have been specifically chosen to target areas of anti-social behaviour.

The projects are funded by the Youth Crime Action Plan and Rochdale Council.

Councillor Irene Davidson, portfolio holder for children, schools and families said; "I hope that by giving young people positive activities to participate in in a safe environment, it will encourage them to use their free time more productively."

The council’s youth service has been into the borough’s schools to help promote the scheme. Youth workers and youth groups have also been targeted to ensure as many young people as possible take part.

Keith Hicks, head of community at Rochdale AFC, said the projects are already being well received but they want more young people to come along and join in the fun.

He continued: "Both nights have something to offer for everyone and we have been pleased with the success so far. The sessions at Springhill especially have experienced high attendance and we hope more and more young people will choose to visit us."

Funds for the scheme run until the end of March, but it is hoped they will continue beyond that.

The events are held every weekend; on Friday evenings at Rochdale AFC from 4pm to 7pm and on Saturdays at Springhill High from 4pm to 6pm.

For more info contact Keith Hicks on 01706 643836 / 07958 593121 or email keith.hicks@rochdaleafc.co.uk or Mick Wild on 07933 203353 or email mickwild2@hotmail.co.uk.