SPORTS clubs from all parts of Aireborough have got together to form a new organisation for supporting and developing sport in the area.

Twenty-eight representatives of more than 18 clubs and leagues attended an inaugural meeting organised by the Aireborough Community Involvement Team at Yeadon Town Hall last Friday.

The clubs - including all sporting levels from grass roots and junior sports to the non-League Guiseley Football Club - decided to meet around four times a year to discuss sports issues and push for funding.

CIT officer Jonathan Kerr said the meeting had been very positive, and hoped the new organisation or forum would help individual clubs in their fight for better funding and support.

He said: "We discussed the various issues and whatever different lottery funds are available for clubs to apply for.

"We also want to make it clear that clubs have to do it themselves. The city council can help, and Sport England can help, but we are trying to build up a self-help philosophy."

He said although many clubs came forward with serious issues, they are willing to tackle them through the forum.

Mr Kerr was keen to stress the organisation should serve not only Guiseley, Yeadon and Rawdon, but include clubs from elsewhere which may have members in Aireborough.

One of the forum's first issues will be to look into funding for grass roots level football.

And it is planning to discuss sports development with St Mary's RC Comprehensive School, Menston, which has sports college status.

He said clubs from all parts of Aireborough, including Hawksworth Village, joined in the meeting, and sports represented ranged from football, rugby and cricket to sub-aqua.

Mr Kerr plans to move the meetings around different venues throughout Aireborough in future. The next meeting is expected to take place in late November.

He would like to hear from any interested sports clubs or leagues, of any ability. He can be contacted on (0113) 2146524.

l The CIT is planning to organise a similar forum for members of arts organisations in Aireborough.

A meeting is expected to take place on October 18, although the venue has not yet been set.