SPORT-LOVING youngsters got a taste of the action this week to prepare themselves for a healthier future.

Hundreds of children descended on Eston Sports Academy, in Middlesbrough, on Thursday to take part in a large-scale activity day aimed at sowing the seeds of a healthy lifestyle.

The event was organised by Middlesbrough social inclusion project, Hoop Dreams, and included an appearance by Teesside's professional basketball team, The TVLL Teesside Mohawks.

Activities included indoor athletics, football and problem-solving exercises.

Representatives from Middlesbrough Primary Care Trust were also present to share their advice in a healthy-eating workshop.

More than 400 primary school children, from schools in Middlesbrough and Hartlepool, took part in the event.

The objective was to create awareness of social issues including obesity, healthy eating, smoking, alcohol and drug abuse.

Jason Budd, of Hoop Dreams, said: "It went really well - we couldn't have wished for a better day. We were really pleased with the turnout. The day was about trying to increase participation with young people to get them involved with sport and putting across this positive message of healthy eating."

Director of Hoop Dreams Tony Hanson said: "The event encapsulates the ethos of the project by promoting positive messages through sport to young people with the overall aim to deter them from anti-social behaviour."