FOLLOWING the successful Commonwealth Games team last year the popularity of netball in Herefordshire continues to rise.

With support of volunteers and England Netball there are now even more opportunities for people to play.

On a weekly basis you will see Back to Netball, Walking netball, junior clubs, local leagues, county academies and regional squads all taking to the courts.

"Netball really is for everyone, whether you haven’t played since school or only stopped last year, there is a version of the game for all ages and abilities," said netball development officer for Herefordshire and Worcestershire Lindsay Hacking.

"Nearly all schools across the county offer netball in both PE and after school sessions, and alongside the opportunities at local junior clubs it has meant that over the last couple of years we’ve had a number of young girls progress in to local franchise Severn Stars and even the England pathway.

"England Netball local leagues are booming and the number of teams taking part each year grows rapidly."

Spread across three divisions Herefordshire Netball league has weekly fixtures are played in both summer and winter seasons in Hereford and Leominster.

Local performance club Westside also compete in regional competitions within the West Midlands. This year's under-19 squad have had a strong start to the season winning three out of their last four games.

Many of the girls on the side progressed through the county academy's programme from the under-13 age category and will also continue to play within their own college and school teams.

Back to Netball and walking netball are also popular in the county

Hacking added: "Back to Netball is based around the traditional game, whereas Walking Netball is simply netball but at a walking pace!

These offer an opportunity for ladies to get back in to the sport following some time away, injury, pregnancy or for anyone who may have never played.

"Led by qualified coaches sessions are tailored to the needs of the group and are a great way to exercise in a relaxed and fun environment whilst meeting new people.

"Volunteers make up the core group who facilitate netball within Herefordshire and without their time and dedication to the sport there would be limited opportunities available."

Herefordshire County Netball Association is supported by England Netball, the governing body for the sport, who are funded by Sport England.

For more details contact Hacking by emailing: lindsy.hacking@englandnetball.co.uk or phoning 07545924953.