OLYMPIC silver medallist Steve Cram returned to his roots to help launch a citizenship scheme.

Mr Cram, a Sunderland Association Football Club Foundation trustee, returned to his old school, Springfield Comprehensive, in Jarrow, to meet children who will take part in the club's Shining Through scheme.

It helps young people make a positive contribution to their local community, either in or outside school, then rewards them for being good citizens.

Launched in November 2000, in County Durham, the scheme was extended to Sunderland.

From January, it will be introduced in schools in North Yorkshire and South Tyneside.

Mr Cram said: "I am delighted to be involved in improving citizenship amongst children, particularly with the programme being extended into an area close to my heart.

"It is a great example of how sport can be a motivating factor in improving other areas of people's lives."

The scheme includes three types of award - for personal improvement, contribution to a school, and contribution to a community.

As well as receiving tickets for a Premiership match at the Stadium of Light, award winners are invited to a ceremony at the stadium, where they are presented with a certificate and a gift bag and taken on a tour. They also have the chance to win a Playstation 2 games console.