A NEW scheme to get more teenagers in Hertfordshire involved in sports is to be given £100,000 by the county council over the next two years.

The sum is to be used to launch the Making it Happen in Sport project which hopes to direct children into more constructive activities, which should in turn help to reduce anti-social behaviour.

The money will also mean that a sports development officer will be employed to help move the scheme forward and draw up ways in which children could get involved in sports.

Events and taster sessions in new sports are just a few of the things that will be on offer.

Mr Martin Bailey, children's participation project officer at the county council said: "Organised sport and leisure activities are constructive in building self esteem and respect of others.

The first phase of the scheme will involve a hundred teenagers from across the county, with involvement from organisations such as the Youth Service, police, Youth Offending teams, district councils and sports clubs in the area. The £100,000 budget makes provisions for use of sports facilities, coaching and transportation costs.