SPORTY youngsters will be cock-a-hoop if they take part in a new basketball course.

Bury's Castle Leisure Centre will host a 12-week coaching programme, plus league games, starting next Tuesday (May 1).

On that night, there will be under-13 junior coaching sessions for boys and girls, High School Central Venue Leagues for girls and boys in Years 7 and 8 and girls only in Year 9.

There will also be an under-15 Central Venue League for boys, girls and mixed teams.

The programme has been put together thanks to a £5,000 Lottery grant and support from England Basketball.

Councillor Warren Flood, sports and recreation spokesman, said: "It gives young people the chance to learn about the game, develop their skills under expert coaching and then play regularly at competition level. "As far as the Central Venue Leagues are concerned, teams of young players will be able to turn up and take part with referees provided for the games.

"We have up-graded the facilities at Castle Leisure Centre with new basketball hoops and clearer line markings. Now we just need young players to come along and enjoy themselves."

To register for the May 1 to July 17 period (excluding school holidays), contact Jackie Veal on 253 5893 or Nick Ibberson on 763 1434.

FOOTBALL coaching schemes for girls aged under 12, run in conjunction with Bury Girls and Ladies Football Club, are about to kick off.

The first starts on Friday (April 27), from 4.30pm to 5.30pm at Philips High School in Whitefield and will run every Friday for the following eight weeks.

The second venue will be Broad Oak High in Bury, although dates and times have yet to be confirmed. Sessions will cost £1 and will be taken by a fully qualified Football Association coach.

Both centres are open to girls from any school, irrespective of ability. To register, contact Jackie Veal on 253 5893.