Sir Steve Redgrave is spearheading a government-backed project to increase children’s participation in sport and exercise in the UK.

Redgrave Health and Leisure, formed by Sir Steve and his wife following his retirement from rowing, has launched a pilot project with Watchetts Junior School in Camberley, Surrey.

The four-month scheme aims to encourage children to exercise through joining local sports and activity clubs, educate them in the science of health and exercise, teach correct methods of exercise and sporting techniques to prevent injuries and provide meaningful research about the participation and health benefits of these interventions.

The company will run breakfast, lunch and after-school clubs to introduce children to a wide range of sports and exercise opportunities.

The Sports Development Unit of Surrey Heath Borough Council will be co-ordinating the involvement of local sports teams and organisations, who will visit the school on a regular basis to offer taster sessions. Sporting celebrities will also visit the school to give motivational talks.

The project is being supported by Dell, Technogym, Concept II, Sona Positive Health, Reebok and Bodycare, who are providing a mixture of IT, PE, games and assessment equipment.

Plans are also underway for a further, more in-depth scheme from Redgrave Health and Leisure.

Due to launch in September, the year-long project will work with both junior and secondary schools to increase physical activity. It is hoped the project will be funded by the Youth Sport Trust.