As part of its strategy to make sure Sport “appeals to everyone”, Wales'>Sport Wales has appointed its first ever director of community engagement.

“With changing social trends, advances in technology and a whole range of opportunities competing for the Welsh public's attention, the new role will focus on ensuring sport offers a wide range of activities that can be attractive to everyone in Wales,” Sport Wales said in a statement.

Taking over the role, Graham Williams – a former director of sports development at Sport Wales – will lead the organisation's work with communities and partners across Wales.

Sarah Powell, Sport Wales CEO, said: "We recognise the need to better understand the motivations and barriers to engaging in sport, to ensure the sporting offer is appropriate for people's needs and is provided in a way that makes them want to continue being active.

"At Sport Wales we have a vital role in supporting our partners to enable more people, whatever their background or personal circumstance to enjoy the benefits of being active and fitter.

"The Wellbeing of Future Generations Act 2015 provides a unique opportunity in Wales for us to better collaborate to get Wales active.

“Sport cannot do this alone and a key part of this new role will be to establish effective partnerships across education, health and other delivery partners to unite behind this common goal of getting Wales active."

Commenting on his new role, Williams added: "I'm looking forward to listening to the views of people across a wide range of sectors, and in all parts of Wales, to ensure our work and future programmes tackle the barriers that prevent people from participating.

“It is vital we deliver tangible results that show the significant benefits and the impact sport has in Wales."