SMASH-hit volleyball is scooping a new set of fans with the help of Hyndburn Council.

The council this week launched a development plan for the sport with an inter-schools volleyball tournament at Hyndburn Sports Centre.

Teams from Hollins, St Christopher's and Mount Carmel High Schools battled it out for a trophy donated by Hyndburn Leisure Services. The winners were Hollins.

The promotion of volleyball is part of the council's Youth Sport Initiative action plan aimed at developing sport for young people in the borough aged 11 to 16.

Coach Steven Isherwood has been putting children through their paces at after-school volleyball sessions in a number of secondary schools in Hyndburn.

Rosalyn Robson, sports development officer, said: "The response from the schools has been tremendous."

Coaching sessions are to be continued at Hyndburn Sports Centre every Tuesday between 6 and 7pm starting on Tuesday, November 14.

It is hoped a junior club can be formed with opportunities for competitive leagues.

Anyone interested in helping to form a local volleyball club should contact Rosalyn on 01254 380288, or Christine Lysons (evenings) on 877757.

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