MEMBERS of a newly created sports club in the district were jumping for joy following news of a bumper grant.

Tynedale Fencing Club has received close to £10,000 from Sport England to purchase much-needed equipment to help develop the club.

Formed towards the end of last year, the club was started in response to the demand following coaching sessions at Hexham’s Queen Elizabeth High School.

Interest has continued to grow within the Tyne Valley, and the club now meets on Tuesdays at Hexham’s Wentworth Leisure Centre.

Prior to the funding, secured through help from Active Northumberland’s sports development team, the club relied on using equipment provided by Chris Morton, a coach at Durham Phoenix Fencing Club drafted in to help lead the Tynedale venture.

Now, the signs are positive and Tynedale Fencing Club are looking to go from strength-to-strength as membership numbers reach the 45 mark.

To appeal to new members, the club will hold an open day at Wentworth on Sunday, April 23, between 11am and 12.30pm.