Sport participation rises in Wales but varies in region

Levels of adult participation in sport in Wales have risen to the highest since records began, according to research by the Sports Council for Wales. The Sports Participation and Club Membership in Wales 1998/1999 report, says that 55 per cent of adults in Wales take part in sporting activities and 16 per cent are members of a sports club. The figures are up from 47 per cent and 12 per cent respectively in 1998. However, the study has revealed regional disparities with Ceredigion being Wales' sportiest region with 78 per cent participation and Caerphilly bottom of the table with a 34 per cent rate. Sports Council for Wales' chief executive, Huw Jones, says the figures show links between low levels of participation and poor health levels in those areas.