Village Olympics to champion niche sport

First Saddleworth Olympics event in 1985..PIC shows start of girls (under 15s) 1500m race..85J959.

YOUNG people from across Saddleworth are already limbering-up for the famous annual village games and organisers have now secured charity status.

The historic Saddleworth Village Olympics, now in its 31st year, is back once again but is due to start a week later than usual this time.

The event continues to provide sporting opportunities for those aged between seven and 16 but this year will begin on September 10 due to changes in the school holiday calendar.

Not ones to rest on their laurels, the planning committee have been hard at work in the "off season" preparing for this year's event.

The organisation previously ran as a "not-for-profit" but has now successfully registered as a charity - the Saddleworth Village Games.

It is hoped that this will encourage local businesses and individuals who were perhaps unable or unwilling to donate to non-registered charities to now do so.

In addition, the organisers are considering the introduction of crown green bowling into what is already a hectic schedule.

It is hoped that, if successful, the introduction of this sport will encourage more young people to join the many bowling clubs in the area.

A "taster day" is being held at Dobcross bowling club on May 29 between 11am and 4pm.

The day is open to everyone aged between 12 and 15 and the day will consist of coaching, explanation of the rules and practice sessions.

It is "drop-in, drop-out" so parents and youngsters are encouraged to go along and give it a go.

For further information please see www.saddleworthvillageolympics.co.uk or e-mail svogames@gmail.com.

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