GRASSROOTS sports clubs and running groups in and around Chelmsford will be the first to benefit from the launch of Intersport’s new community programme.

Run Active in Chelmsford – part if the Intersport group – has been working with charity Join In to launch a unique, in-store programme that will support local sports groups and help them to engage with new volunteers and players.

As well as expert advice on sporting kit and equipment, clubs and shoppers will be able to access Run Active’s local knowledge to help build their clubs and receive advice on where to get involved with sport locally.

Run Active is one of the first stores to receive a new Join In Community Board, an in-store resource that clubs and visitors can use to engage with the wider community.

The community board will publicise local volunteer opportunities and store staff will work to connect enthusiastic sports participants with clubs in need- helping to build the sporting community throughout central London.

As part of the collaboration, each Intersport store will also be matched with a Local Leader, one of Join In’s local on-the-ground ambassadors. Local Leader, Ann Davis has been paired with Run Active, where she will use her local knowledge of sport to help visitors to the store get involved in their community.

“I’m looking forward to working with Run Active,” Davis said.

“I hope that we will both be able to support each other in getting more people into running and also into volunteering at various running clubs and events and, as the network builds, we’ll be able to support more sports as well.”

Run Active is one of the first stores to launch the scheme, which will roll out across over 200 Intersport stores throughout 2015. Join In is a London 2012 legacy charity that puts more volunteers into community sport. For further information visit joininuk.org