YOUNGSTERS tried out fencing, curling and croquet yesterday as part of an sport access day.

All special schools and children with visual or physical impairments from mainstream schools across Swindon were invited to the free event at the Link Centre.

Paralympic sprinter Katrina Hart was on hand to encourage and inspire the children who took part. Katrina has cerebral palsy and recently won gold at the Paralympic World Championships in New Zealand to add to her Commonwealth gold medal from last year.

The event was organised by Swindon Council’s Leisure Services and Education Support Services and funded by the Swindon School Sports Partnership.

Young people will also had the chance to try Boccia, climbing, martial arts, wheelchair basketball and seated volleyball.

Swindon Wildcats ice hockey players supported young people on the ice, while Swindon Town’s Football in the Community team ran football sessions.

Last year 179 pupils from 30 different schools attended the event.

Coun Fionuala Foley, cabinet member for leisure and corporate services, said: “We held three Access Days last year and each one was a huge success.

“This one was just as good and it was great that Katrina could be there to inspire the children.

“The sessions are fun and the event is a good opportunity to try lots of different sports and activities, which the children may not have tried before.”