LOCAL people involved in sports and clubs in Darlington borough are being invited to have their say at the first ever meeting of the Darlington Sports Development Network.

The meeting takes place on Wednesday at 6pm in Central Hall at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington.

The network is intended to be an interactive and informal way of ensuring that the local sporting community are at the heart of sports development for Darlington Borough Council.

The event will be the first chance for all involved in sport in Darlington and the surrounding area to get together to forge the future of sports in the area.

Coun Eleanor Lister, the council's cabinet member for leisure, said: "The network is the first chance for local people to really have an impact on the way that we support sport in Darlington. Schools, clubs, sports coaches and volunteers are key to local sport and sports development, and it is with their input that we can ensure that the needs of the local sporting community steer the direction of sports development in Darlington."

Emma Coleby, sports development manager for Darlington Borough Council and co-ordinator of the Darlington Sports Development Network, is keen that as many people come along to the first event as possible.

She said: "The aim of the first Sports Development Network is to plan the way ahead for the future. It is anticipated that subsequent networks will involve interactive workshops, updates and opportunities to meet others involved in sport. However, the aim is that the content of each network will be decided by the local sporting community."

Anyone involved in, or with an interest in, local sport and sports development is welcome to come along to the first Sports Development Network.

Invitations are available at the Dolphin Centre reception or contact 01325 388411.