YOUTH basketball is on the rise in the borough, and Weymouth Basketball Club is now able to boast five separate age group teams.

In an effort to keep the cost of basketball down and remain competitive with other sports, it has been local businesses that have partly provided the support required to give youngsters a chance to get on court.

Weymouth development officer Alex Fuhrmann said: “When looking for support from the community, we often look to those businesses that can provide a link or connection with sport.

“However, this time we were approached by a company who simply wanted to assist the club in delivery of the sport to young people.”

The latest organisation to agree a sponsorship deal with Wey-mouth is Goodwin Health & Safety Associates, a company that provide solutions to a variety of businesses and companies by providing training, assessment and consultancy covering.

Goodwin Health & Safety director Ian Goodwin, said: “For us it isn’t about making a direct connection.

“My son has been a part of the Weymouth Basketball Club for a number of years and the positive affect team sport can have on young people needs all our support.”

Fuhrmann added: “I know I’ve mentioned previously how the power of community can really affect a sports club and their members, but this really does highlight it.

“GHSA really have no connection to the sport of basketball, but it’s clear they do have a connection and desire to improve the quality of services offered to young people in the borough.

“We’re extremely proud to have made this partnership and can only hope other businesses in the area will take the same steps.”

If you’re interested in seeing how you might help the basketball club or want to start playing yourself, visit the club website at weymouthbasketball.co.uk