CHILDREN in Bewsey and Dallam are following in their parents' footsteps by defying the national trend to show off their sports skills.

Sports participation in the town is up eight per cent on the same quarter last year despite a national drop in those taking to the field and gym halls since 2012.

LiveWire has been committed to getting more residents involved and it set up the Bewsey and Dallam Active Zone last October after receiving almost £230,000 of National Lottery funding through Sport England.

The project has helped engaged 40 women in the weekly combat sessions, many of whom have shed more than three stone since starting.

But while the classes are going on their children have been taking part in sports sessions in the area, including in the hall at Bewsey Gym, on Lockton Lane.

More than 700 hours of sport and physical activity opportunities through 451 sessions and 21 events were carried out over the past year in the town by the Active LiveWire team, with 10,327 people participating.

And although Bewsey and Dallam sport and activity activator Jenny Welsby is focused on improving opportunities for those in the area during the three-year scheme, she is tipping the whole town for success because of the efforts in place.

"Everyone is working together and there is a real push to drive participation and keep the numbers up," she said.

"Here we are trying out different sessions and are trying to get the people coming back after they have tried it out – it is about making the project sustainable.

"It is important for everyone to tell their friends as if they hear a recommendation they are more likely to come but the feedback has been really good."

The project puts on multi-sport activities, combat classes, as well as exercise and body tone sessions.

But Jenny admits the family spirit on show each week is driving her on to continue succeeding.

"We have carried out quite a lot of family activities and I will take the kids so parents can do an exercise class at the same time," she added.

"We have been targetting those aged over 14 but we are inviting all youngsters, especially in the summer holidays.

"If parents are coming then they can bring their children too to get involved."