Published: 5 December, 2013
by STEVE BARNETT

SCORES of young sports fans from Camden were left starstruck when they got the chance to meet Team GB’s Paralympic basketball player Helen Turner.

The European champion, who has represented Great Britain in three Paralympics, turned up at the Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre to help launch Camden Council’s new Active for All sports scheme.

Funded through Sport England’s Inclusive Sport Fund, the initiative is aimed at increasing opportunities for disabled residents to participate in sport and physical activity.

Coaches and organisers involved in the project will set about strengthening the community network of disability sports provision in Camden and create more sustainable opportunities for disabled people aged 14 to 25 years old.

Among the sports that will regularly be on offer are boccia, athletics, cycling, football and swimming.

Councillor Tulip Siddiq, cabinet member for communities and culture, said: “The programme will provide disabled residents with access to a wide range of activities at our leisure centres.

“Not only will these activities help residents stay fit and healthy but it will also provide opportunities to meet new people and have fun.

“To be joined at the launch by Paralympian Helen Turner was a real privilege and I hope these sessions will encourage more young disabled residents into an active lifestyle.”