CHILDREN across the district are being invited to take part in a play scheme which aims to get them involved in sports during the school holidays. Sports in the Parks, which is now in its third year, is designed for five to 12-year-olds but children under

CHILDREN across the district are being invited to take part in a play scheme which aims to get them involved in sports during the school holidays.

Sports in the Parks, which is now in its third year, is designed for five to 12-year-olds but children under five can take part if accompanied by an adult.

A team of play leaders will be holding the sessions, which are completely free, at 10 local parks and they will consist of a range of sports and games.

The scheme is run by the St Albans Arts, Sport and Health Development Team, which is provided by the district council and managed in partnership with Leisure Connection.

Clare Baker, Sports in the Parks co-ordinator, said: "We are very fortunate as a city and district to have the funding available to run a scheme like this one and not have to charge anyone so I hope that lots of people take advantage of the opportunity to get outside in one of our many open areas."

She added: "We have a fantastic team in place who are enthusiastic and brilliant with all the youngsters. Even if your child is not a 'sporty' type, still come along as we have something for everyone from the traditional sports such as football and cricket to children's party games like duck duck goose and parachute games."

There is no need to sign up in advance so children can just turn up on the day.

The remaining sessions will take place during the morning between 10am and 12.30pm and in the afternoon between 1.30pm and 4pm on the following days:

* Monday, August 18, at Porters Hill Open Space in Batford in the morning and Roestock Park in Colney Heath in the afternoon.

* Tuesday, August 19 and 26, at the Recreation Ground in Park Street in the morning and then at the Marlborough Pavilion in Sopwell in the afternoon.

* Wednesday August 20 and 27 at Rothamsted Park in Harpenden in the morning and at Toulmin Drive football pitches in St Albans in the afternoon.

* Thursday August 21 and 28 at Clarence Park in St Albans in the morning and then at the Morris Playing Fields in London Colney in the afternoon.

* Friday August 22 and 29 at Marford Road playing fields in Wheathampstead in the morning and the Spencer Playing Field in Sandridge in the afternoon.

For more information visit the website www.leisureinstalbans.co.uk and go to the Sport and Health Development Section under Summer Activities. Or alternatively call the team on 01727 827667.