Youngsters in York can take advantage of a library with a difference, thanks to City of York Council and the Early Years Department and Childcare Partnership (EYDCP).

The Active Play Equipment Library (APEL) aims to enhance child care provision in York by providing a range of sports equipment for hire to out-of-school clubs, nurseries, playgroups and childminders.

The scheme, funded by the European Social Fund through the EYDCP and City of York Council, is particularly aimed at serving disadvantaged children within the city.

Simon Haddock, Active Play Equipment Library co-ordinator, City of York Council, said: "The library is a fantastic opportunity for out of school groups across the city to access high qualiy sports equipment.

It's suitable for use by able-bodied and disabled children between the ages of 18 months and 16 years of age. Each piece of equipment has a nominal hire charge for a six week period, so it's a great way of providing children with new challenges and stimulation on a regular, but low cost basis."

The equipment in the library will be based on the TOPS range of sports equipment which includes programmes for tots, early years, key stage 1 children and disability sports. Child care providers who join up to the scheme can receive full training on how to use the equipment from the library's co-ordinator.

Anyone wanting more information should contact Simon Haddock, library co-ordinator on 01904 553374.

ENDS