A THRIVING sports club has shown what can be done for children with learning difficulties and disabilities.

For the SNAP club, which stands for Special Needs Activity Programme, is one of the few clubs in Lancashire that caters for children who need special care and attention.

In last week's Sport Extra, Lancashire County Council's sports and disability officer Peter Edmondson expressed his concern at the lack of facilities available for young disabled sports fans.

However, Mr Edmondson, who helped launched a new club at the Turf Moor leisure centre, said that SNAP is leading the way.

He said: "What is happening at SNAP is very positive and I hope to see it in other parts of the county. The club provides access to a whole range of sports to children who otherwise would not get the chance."

Formed four years ago by Hyndburn Borough Council, the club meets at Hyndburn Sports Centre every Friday and is now run by a team of volunteers -- many of whose own children use the club. The club has since obtained nearly £4,000 in Lottery funding and has 27 children age eight and upwards attending each week, with a core of volunteers including secretary Maureen Mullin, chairman Andrew Batt and committee members Lydia Meadows, Mandy Naylor and Lisa Allerton.

Treasurer Lynne White said: "The children love coming to the club and we even have a waiting list. We offer a whole range of sports and other activities and at the moment former Burnley player Nathan Peel is running a football coaching course which we appreciate very much."

Other sports on offer range from badminton to volleyball, and curling to indoor athletics. The club is currently looking for a trampolining coach.

Mrs White added: "The club is basically run by parents and we are very proud of what we have achieved. But I think every town should have such a club. That is why I am glad to see a similar one starting up in Burnley. Hopefully we can forge links and arrange competitions because that is something we have not done yet.

"Playing sports also helps children in a lot of other ways, including helping them work in teams, to concentrate more and improve hand and eye co-ordination."

Any qualified trampolining coaches who would like to help the group should contact Mrs White on 01254 381466.

The Turf Moor leisure centre will be holding a taster session for youngsters on Saturday, November 25. For details contact Neil Claxton on 01282 700025.