Youth sports event scoops award

A YOUTH sporting event in Warrington, VPX (Victoria Park Experience), has scooped a prestigious award.
The pioneering event won the Innovation Award from Cheshire and Warrington Sports Partnership at a ceremony at Mere Golf and Country Club, near Knutsford.
VPX was honoured for increasing participation in sport and physical activity.
The award was for one of 10 categories in the scheme which recognises the achievements of volunteers, coaches, clubs and participants and celebrates the dedication of local sporting talent. Members of the public throughout Cheshire and Warrington were invited to vote for winners.
VPX was designed to engage young people in Warrington in sport and physical activity, increase their involvement with the local community and reduce anti-social behaviour.
It developed from an existing event for BMX, skateboarding and in-line skating. A bigger event, aimed at involving more young people, was organised during 2010 by partners including Cheshire Constabulary, Cheshire Fire and Rescue and Warrington Borough Council.
More than 1,300 children and young people took part in the event which included both traditional and alternative sporting challenges.
Cheshire and Warrington Sports Partnership has set up a Rising Stars fund to help and support performers who hope to compete in the 2012 Olympics.