Fun for Everyone at Downpatrick Wheelie Active Club

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council recently launched its new ‘Wheelie Active Club’ in Down Leisure Centre as part of their ‘Everybody Active EBA2020’ programme. The Club, which is aimed at promoting the development of Disability Sport throughout the district, is intended for children with physical disabilities, aged between four and 12 years.

The new programme includes sessions using a wide variety of disability sports equipment, including accessible bikes, sports wheelchairs, Boccia sets and other specialist equipment.

Through the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Disability Sports Hub Project, Disability Sport NI will be supporting the development of sustainable sports clubs such as the Wheelie Active Clubs. The project aims to give children with physical disabilities opportunities to develop physical literacy and movement skills for sport in a range of safe, progressive and inclusive activities. Friends and siblings are also encouraged to take part in the activities with the understanding that safety and enjoyment is key to the ethos of the programme.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor Charlie Casey said, “This is a fantastic programme and I am pleased to see such opportunities for young children to encourage them to Be Active.

“We are delighted to be able to provide facilities and activities for young children who usually don’t have as many opportunities to participate in sport. This new programme will provide activities for everyone to improve their health and wellbeing.”

Downpatrick Wheelie Active Club runs on Tuesday evenings from 6pm to 7pm at Down Leisure Centre, Downpatrick.