A PRESTIGIOUS countywide sporting event will be hosted by Okehampton next year.

The town has been chosen to host the Devon Games to Inspire 2012 next June after hard work and campaigning from OCRA.

The games are a free event for young people from across the county, attracting more than 1,000 youngsters from nine council areas to take part in 15 different sports.

The event has been running for over ten years and was formerly the Devon Youth Games before it became a 2012 Olympic Games Legacy event. This year's event was held at the University of Exeter.

Stuart Lord, manager of OCRA said: 'It was great when it was read out that we had been voted to host the 2012 games. What they liked about Okehampton was the diversity of over 40 different sports that we could offer in such a beautiful setting.

'The event will have a fantastic festival feel and involve the college campus, Parklands Leisure Centre, Simmons Park, Riverside Table Tennis Centre, Access to the moor, and the skatepark.

'As well as teams travelling from all over Devon, this will be great for local children and young people who can be part of Team West Devon and participate in these games, which will take place in late June next year. There will also be lots for local people to join in on on the day.

'OCRA are keen to develop a positive image for the town and area as a destination for activity. Attracting events like this gives a real boost and really promotes what fantastic facilities, wonderful natural and parkland environment, and club infrastructure we have.'

One of the local organisations heavily involved with the event will be Okehampton Table Tennis Club.

Lorraine Robinson, who is involved with coaching at the club, was excited about the opportunities it would present for youngsters in Okehampton: 'Having been involved with the club for ten years and being a part of welcoming youngsters to the club, it is an exciting time.

'As a club we have done well, having young players in the nationwide rankings and encouraging young players here.

'In the build-up to the London Olympics when interest in sport will be at its highest, it is great to see the town getting an opportunity to be involved in this event, and we hope it encourages young people to not only take up table tennis, but other sports they may be interested in as well.'

Last year OCRA co-ordinated the West Devon team for the event. They deliver a wide range of sports, art, dance, and activity sessions throughout the year for children, youths and adults.

In 2011, more than 2,500 people benefitted from the delivery of OCRA activities and events. Through its support of local clubs and development of facilities, it has a further impact on hundreds more.

To get involved with the Devon Games to Inspire, or if you are interested in sport in the area, you can contact OCRA by e-mailling [email protected]">[email protected] or calling 01837 54546.