More than 50 grassroots sports clubs have received support from the Fibrus Play it Forward Fund.

The fund, now in its second year, has provided over £20,000 to grassroots clubs in Cumbria, and an additional £30,000 to groups in Northern Ireland.

Over the past two years, the fund has contributed more than £100,000 to sports clubs, including £40,000 in Cumbria, all with the aim of encouraging children to get outside and engage in sports activities.

The Play it Forward Fund is designed to support children and young people under the age of 18 by encouraging them to get involved with sports on a community level.

Its aim, however, is to reach beyond sports, empowering children in local communities to prioritise movement, health and wellbeing.

Talkin Tarn Rowing Club, the oldest rowing club in Cumbria, is among the beneficiaries and will use its £1,000 grant to introduce more youngsters to the sport.

The club plans to offer free ‘Learn To Row’ courses for children.

Talkin Tarn Rowing Club will use its £1,000 grant to introduce more youngsters to the sport (Image: Supplied) The club’s vice-chairman, Denis Burke, said: "We’re keen to continue the club’s legacy of developing local youngsters who can enjoy the sport of rowing and may be able to go on to represent us at regional and national levels."

He also highlighted the health benefits of rowing, stating: "Rowing brings a wealth of health benefits as well as being an exciting sport for participants and spectators."

Inspired by the performances of the GB team at the Paris Olympics, the club hopes that young people will take up the sport.

Linda McMillan, chief people officer at Fibrus, said: "We are committed to playing a role in improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people, so investing in local communities is important to us.

"Our Play It Forward Fund is just one way we do this.

"I’m delighted to see a new batch of clubs benefitting from the fund’s second year in Cumbria."

The fund provides grants to help with various projects, including buying equipment and kits, improving facilities, and subsidising training fees.

Further information can be found on the Fibrus Play it Forward Fund website.