Sport England North East has awarded £1.3m through the Community Investment Fund.

The move was prompted by An Active People Survey carried out last year, which highlighted less-than-average levels of participation in north east England.

The funding will create 69 new coaching posts, in partnership with the four existing County Sports Partnerships, to improve participation in sport by expanding their coaching network at the local level.

Regional director Judith Rasmussen said: “Coaches are important to encourage participation and provide expert tuition. Good coaches are a fundamental link in the delivery system for sport and ensure activities are safe and enjoyable.

“There will be economic benefits from the creation of these new employment opportunities and the training programmes will produce highly skilled and qualified regional coaches.”