GIRLS from east Cleveland have been sampling sport this week.

Middlesbrough Football Community Project in partnership with East Cleveland Education Action Zone is trying to promote sport and exercise among girls.

This week, led by health promotors Rob Lake and Claire Smith, the girls have been taking part in team building exercises, football, fitness testing, swimming, basketball and gym work at the Eston Sports Academy.

Mr Lake said: "The girls have experienced lots of different activities in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.

"It is important girls continue to exercise in their teenage years and this type of course will hopefully encourage them."

The highlight of the course was a trip to the David Lloyd Centre at Tees Barrage yesterday, where the girls tried tennis, fitness and swimming.

Maxine Freer, from David Lloyd, said: "Being involved with this project allows children of all ages and backgrounds to take part in activities that would normally not be accessible to them."