PARENTS in Maldon are being urged to help their children get more active after worrying statistics showed youngsters were not getting enough exercise.

A survey by Sports England showed just 49 per cent of children in Maldon were classed as active – defined as doing an hour or more of activity per day – in the 2021-22 academic year. 

It was up from 44 per cent the year before, when Covid-19 restrictions heavily impacted children's sports and activities, but was down from 53 per cent in the pre-pandemic 2017-18 academic year.

England Squash has launched a programme for children aged between five and nine in Maldon to get involved in the sport.

Classes will be held at Park Drive Health Club from February, 5 next year.

Children will be taught the skills needed to play squash and expert coaches will help them improve their hand-eye coordination and physical literacy.

Youngsters will expand on their resilience and teamwork skills whilst getting active.

Every child who signs up will be given a free racket, Squash Stars t-shirt, ball, goggles and kit bag as organisers aim to be mindful of financial pressure on parents.

The Sport England’s Active Lives survey found activity levels among young people have generally returned to pre-pandemic levels.

However, the number of children aged seven to nine taking part in sports or physical activity for at least an hour each day hasn’t recovered as well as other groups.

Just 39 per cent of children in that age group are considered as active.

Joanna Rowbottom, head of partnerships and programmes at England Squash, said: “Squash is a fantastic sport and a great way to help young people get active.

“The focus at the sessions is very much on having fun, getting active, and making new friends.

“We want all the children who take part to soar in every aspect of their life and that starts with a positive experience with sport.

“Squash Stars is suitable for everyone; it doesn’t matter how much or how little sport children have done before.

“There are friendly, welcoming clubs and coaches ready to help your child get started and enjoy the benefits of this amazing sport.”

The six-week programme costs £42 or £7 per session.

To book your child a place, visit www.squashstars.co.uk.