A FEMALE fitness movement has launched a new scheme offering volunteers the chance to become community champions.

The I Will If You Will (IWIYW) Champions programme will allow local role models to take on new positions designed to encourage and support more women and girls to take part in sport and physical activity.

The first champions - Sharon Holding, Natalie Cadman, Deborah Bancroft and Debbie Cliff - were presented with certificates by the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Stella Smith, at Bury Town Hall last week.

Sharon, aged 46, knows first-hand just how much of a difference volunteering can make, as she has been volunteering with Castle Knights disability sports group for the last two years.

Sharon told guests at the event: “Being disabled doesn’t mean that your life is over and having a disability shouldn’t stop anyone from being active.

“Castle Knights gives members somewhere to meet their friends and take part in activities they might not think they can do, such as swimming and indoor bowls. The group is run entirely by volunteers and I get so much enjoyment from being able to show other people with disabilities what they can achieve.”

Julie Durrant, IWIYW Communities Lead, said: “I Will If You Will is all about getting more women and girls more active, more often and we’re looking for enthusiastic and passionate people to become IWIYW Champions and help us achieve our goals.

“From supporting newcomers to find their feet and confidence at the gym, right through to co-ordinating events and helping local sports clubs, there are loads of opportunities for everyone to get involved and volunteer as an IWIYW Champion.”

Cllr Smith said: “The Champions Programme will no doubt add a different dimension to I Will If You Will. The opportunities available sound very exciting and I hope it encourages more people to volunteer and help get many more women and girls across Bury more active, more often. Volunteering can make a real difference to the lives of those around us and be extremely rewarding as a result.”

IWIYW Champions will be rewarded for their time and efforts with free IWIYW branded items such as t-shirts, sports bottles and gym bags, as well as accredited training to support their ongoing development when they reach milestones of 10, 20, 50 and 100 hours.

To find out more and sign up as an IWIYW Champion: go to buryvip.com, email iwillifyouwill@bury.gov.uk or call 0161 253 5893.