The mayors of London and Newham joined together today to launch a programme of free summer activities.

Newham Recorder: Children play gamesat at the Coca-Cola Zero ParkLives event in Stratford Park.Children play gamesat at the Coca-Cola Zero ParkLives event in Stratford Park. (Image: Archant)

The Coca-Cola Zero ParkLives sessions are part of a £20 million scheme to invest in encouraging more people to be active, and will take place in ten parks across the borough.

Newham is one of three areas, alongside Newcastle and Birmingham, to pilot the scheme.

It offers daily, timetabled activities in ten parks across the borough, including bowls, football and salsa.

Sir Robin Wales said: “This initiative provides a wonderful opportunity for our residents to take part in a range of differing sport.

“We strongly believe that these fun and social activities can inspire people to live a healthy, more active way of life that will help them achieve their potential.”

In addition to launching the scheme in Stratford Park, Boris Johnson announced that a £500,000 investment in his FreeSport programme will be match funded by Coca-Cola Great Britain.

The money allows sports clubs and community groups to apply for a grant of up to £1,500 to run free sport tasters for Londoners of all ages and abilities.

Mr Johnson said: “FreeSport has been incredibly popular since it launched in 2009, giving thousands of people the chance to develop a sporting habit that will stay with them for life.

“This fantastic investment means that we will be able to help tens of thousands more Londoners to get active, try something new and lead healthier lifestyles. Whatever your age or ability, there is bound to be a sport or activity to suit, so give it a go.”

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