A college has unveiled sweeping plans to revolutionise sport in the community.

Pelton Roseberry Comprehensive was recently awarded specialist sports status by the Government after months of exhaustive fundraising and background work in order to qualify.

Now, following an initial grant of £150,000 which includes £50,000 raised by the school, it is rolling out its programme of sport for pupils and the community.

A £30,000 climbing wall and gym within the school grounds should be built by the end of this year, along with changing rooms, a community area and offices.

New courses are being designed so that sixth-formers can study for a range of qualifications in sports or leisure studies or improve their sporting talents.

More staff are being employed to expand the range of activities on offer at the school.

Sports the school will focus on include cricket and rugby, with the help of groups that supported the bid, such as Durham County Cricket Club and Chester-le-Street Rugby Club, which will be lending their expertise and facilities. The school is also increasing the outdoor adventure activities it can provide for pupils and the local community.

In particular, the school - officially known as Roseberry Sports and Community College - wants to increase the amount of participation by women and girls.

Head of PE, Pam Turner, who compiled the school's bid, said: "With specialist status we're supposed to raise standards in school in achievement and participation rates, in particular for women and girls.

"Female sports get overlooked, that's one reason why we're pushing women's football and netball."

An evening netball club started up only weeks ago has already surpassed the organiser's expectations by attracting more than 30 women from Pelton and nearby villages and about 20 pupils.

The college has also launched a campaign to help local people improve their health and has designed a gym to appeal to people who normally feel intimidated by the gym environment or health clubs.

To persuade more people involved in sport, the school has paid for a second minibus to ferry them home at night.