A NETBALL team aimed at children aged between five and nine has been set up in Northwich.

Northwich Sapphires Netball Club received £1,000 from housebuilder Redrow’s community fund that’s been used to set up Bee Netball, a programme that will introduce younger children to the game.

Lauren Watson, head coach at Northwich Sapphires, said: “Bee Netball is a programme designed by England Netball and gives younger children the chance to learn the sport and principles of the game in a fun way.

"They can then progress into the junior section of the club and participate in competitive league matches. It’s great that Northwich Sapphires can now work with even more netball fans in the community.”

Northwich Sapphires currently has 185 members and 18 teams.

Lauren added: “Netball is the largest team sport for women and is growing in popularity. Participation levels are at an all-time high, with 1.4 million women and girls taking to courts across the country in a typical week during the netball season.

"We’re really pleased we can offer this sport to so many girls in our community.”The donation was used towards court hire, equipment and training for coaches to deliver the programme.

Area sales manager for Redrow NW, Caroline Thompson-Jones, said: “Grassroots netball is a brilliant opportunity to get children active, meet new friends and be part of a team whilst nourishing their love for a sport that they can continue playing into adulthood.

"Redrow is really pleased we were able to help Northwich Sapphires set up this new team.”

The team train on Fridays between 5pm and 6pm at Hartford High School. To find out more about Northwich Sapphires follow them on Facebook: Northwich Sapphires Netball Club.