An investigation to reverse a decline in the number of children taking part in sport was launched yesterday.

MSPs want to hear the public's view on provision of sport in schools, community facilities and coaching.

Christine Grahame, convener of Holyrood's Health and Sport Committee, hopes Scotland's young people can emulate the success of Olympians, such as cyclist Chris Hoy at the recent Beijing Games.

She said: "While their success demonstrates that Scottish athletes can perform well at the elite level, the committee is concerned that the number of Scots tak- ing part in sport is declin- ing and targets for young people's participation are not being met."

The investigation follows appearances at parliament from sport stars including athlete Liz McColgan, rugby player Gregor Townsend and football manager Craig Brewster.

The stars raised concerns about the level of access and standard of training facilities in Scotland.

The new phase invites views from all interested individuals and organisations.

Questions include what level of physical activity should be provided at primary and secondary schools, whether existing facilities are adequate and how links with sports clubs can be strengthened.

The number of sport coaches, barriers preventing people taking part and lessons from other countries will be considered.

Labour sport spokesman Frank McAveety said the investigation should make improving access to sport a priority.

He said: "We are calling on the SNP government to accelerate a programme for new sporting facilities in our communities.

"Another key move the government must make is to ensure school children get two hours of physical education a week."

And he added: "Sport should be a priority - less talk and more action is needed."

Last week the Sports Minister, Stewart Maxwell, said there was a need to "energise" Scotland's youth.

Mr Maxwell outlined the government's intention to increase levels of sporting participation, as well as improving facilities and after-school schemes.