HAFREN School in Newtown hosted the first of a three week School Holiday Enrichment Programme last week.

The SHEP project offers children aged seven to 10 four days of sporting activity a week as well as nutritional information and free meal as part of an education workshop.

Newtown sports development officer Jonny Roberts co-ordinated with Hafren School co-ordinator Karen Finucane to deliver the SHEP programme.

Powys-based British athletics stars Andy Davies, Lauren Williams and Adele Nicoll each attended the launch and delivered sessions to the youngsters.

Newtown Netball Club, Newtown Rugby Club, Newtown Tennis Club, Newtown Cricket Club and Newtown Hockey Club will also be supporting the programme.

Roberts said: “We want to give the children an opportunity to try as many sports as possible and have had some great input from local clubs.

“We were also lucky enough to enjoy a running session with Andy Davies and Lauren Williams and a throws session with Adele Nicoll.

“All of them were brilliant and put on great sessions for the kids which the children thoroughly enjoyed and really acted as true role models and inspirations to these young people.

“We really want to thank them all for giving up their own time to come back and give back to the communities.”

Finucane hoped the Welsh Assembly programme would also serve to strengthen partnerships in the area.

“It’s been amazing scheme so far,” she said. “I’m proud to be involved.

“Part of the SHEP criteria is that we offer two sessions of nutrition each week and one hour of physical activities each day.

“ On the final day each week we invite the families for a shared lunch and they join the activities for the afternoon.”