A COMMUNITY college is pushing for better use of sporting facilities with the introduction of a sports coordinator.

Gary Purcell has taken on the role at King James I Community College in Bishop Auckland.

He said: "I will work with primary and secondary schools and community groups to ensure that the maximum use is made of our sports facilities. I will be involved in training teachers, community workers and pupils towards new skills in a range of new sports."

Headteacher Ed Lott said the school welcomed the chance to have a sports activity zone coordinator.

He said: "We felt we could move to a much higher level of school and community partnership."