RIBBLE Valley Athletic Club was officially launched at the Vue Club in Accrington.

The new club was only started up recently by former Hyndburn Coach of the Year Don Lennon and they have already amassed around 50 members and are affiliated to the North of England Athletic Association.

Regular training sessions have begun.

Every Monday, the club meet at Witton Park, Blackburn between 6-7.30pm for Under 11s and older athletes interested in track and field events - sprints, hurdles, throws and jumps. They also meet there on Sunday mornings at 10.30am-12 noon for a cross country session.

On Wednesdays, it is an indoor circuit at St Augustine's School in Billington from 6.30-8pm.

Don has also set up a satellite club at Edisford Primary School in Clitheroe for children aged eight upwards from 6-7pm Tuesdays and Thursdays.

"I wanted to make a club run by athletes for athletes," said Don Lennon. "That's our club motto and I want the athletes to make the decisions, decide when and where they want to run and just encourage kids to take part and do their best."

The club have a new kit - a white vest, with black piping and pink side panels and have already started competing.

They are currently looking for sponsors and anyone who can help, ring Director of Finance Maggie Schofield on 01200 440131

Anyone interested joining the club or who wants more information contact Caroline Aspden on 01254 600582.