THE Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Elisha McCallion, has endorsed Council’s investment in a new membership scheme that will allow athletes competing at the top of their sport, to train free in its leisure centres.

The aim of the project is to provide talented local athletes involved in an amateur sport, with the best possible opportunities to develop and prepare for competition.

Applicants must be currently part of a recognised governing body, talent pathway or, be officially representing their sport at county level or higher.

Helping launch the scheme with local athletes at the Foyle Arena, Cllr. McCallion said: “We have a large number of talented amateur athletes residing in the Derry City and Strabane District who are competing at the top of their sport and, I’m delighted that Council is making its leisure facilities available for their training needs.”

The Mayor also welcomed the fact that arrangements can be made for any athletes with special training needs.

Applicants who fulfil the criteria will be entitled to six months free access to gym, health suite and swimming pool facilities.

They must be involved in an amateur sport, which is recognised by either Sport Northern Ireland or Irish Sports Council.

For further details about how to apply, contact Aiden Lynch or Ryan Deighan, Council Sports Development Officers, email [email protected] and [email protected]