AN EXCITING new sports initiative that could cut crime and improve health in one of the most deprived areas of England has been launched in Bishop Auckland.

The Wear Valley District's designation as a Sports Action Zone will see up to £2m ploughed into the area.

The National Lottery, through Sport England, is contributing more than £1m over six years and more backing comes from a range of partners including police, schools and colleges, social services, health services, and community and statutory groups.

They hope that by reaching out to all ages from babies to the elderly, promoting exercise and sporting achievement will wipe out Wear Valley's dismal health record, provide interest to keep young people away from crime and drugs and raise the level of expectation across all section of the community.

The ten-year project has already created jobs with the appointment of manager Barbara Millns and three community co-ordinators - Darren Brown, George Richardson and Wayne Brown, who started on April 1.

Two co-ordinators already work in Wolsingham, Willington and Bishop Auckland schools and eventually up to 30 modern apprentices will be recruited for training.

The programme will work closely with others such as the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and the Single Regeneration Budget.

Ms Millns outlined the scheme at the launch in Bishop Auckland Town Hall.

She said: "We feel we can make a major contribution to improving life throughout all sections of the community.

"Wear Valley was chosen because of its record of deprivation, poor health and high rate of teenage pregnancy. Our job is to change that."

Judith Rasmussen, director of Sport England North, said: "The Sport Action Zone programme is viewed by Sport England as one of the most important initiatives for some time on a national basis."

Rob Andrew, England's most capped fly half and director of rugby for Newcastle Falcons, praised the project for its innovative approach.

He said: "Through sport you can influence people's behaviour. I don't think you an underestimate the power of sport in all its aspects.