ROLLER skating has been given a boost in West Devon, after a Tavistock skate club was lucky enough to receive a grant for several thousands of pounds.

West Devon Sk8 Club, based in Tavistock and Plymstock, was recently awarded £5,291 from Sport England to develop a young persons and a ladies' roller hockey team.

The roller skating club was set up last year and has proved to be really popular across West Devon.

More than 30 young people regularly attend weekly training sessions at Tavistock College and Plymstock School.

West Devon Sk8 can now offer roller skating for those who want fun and increased fitness or roller hockey for the more competitive.

The club is committed to developing its volunteers as well and has recently been awarded Plymouth City Council's club accreditation certificate.

The club recently took part in its first match when players from Tavistock and four of the club coaches travelled to Surrey for a friendly tournament.

Alan Jones, club chair and coach said: 'Everyone had a great day.

'The youngsters were a pleasure to take and are eagerly waiting for their next match which may involve a trip to Manchester.

'Our aim is to set up a number of other clubs across the region and encourage other volunteers to do the same so we can develop a cluster of clubs in the South West who will be able to play against each other.'

The club now runs after school sessions at Tavistock College to further the good links it already has with the school.

Anyone interested in taking up roller skating or roller hockey is welcome to join and can contact the committee via the website at http://www.wdsk8.org">www.wdsk8.org

Ladies who used to skate and are interested in getting their skates on again would be especially welcome.

Part of the funding will support the cost of facility hire, equipment and travel costs in order to make the opportunity as affordable as possible.