Sports participation across country rises

SPORT participation is on the rise in Scotland according to new figures.

The figures released by Sport Scotland show an increase in the number of people registered to sports clubs in Scotland has risen in almost every sport where data is available since the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Overall, the number of people participating in sport across the country is up 8.7 per cent since 2013/14, from 706,764 to 768,212.

Sports that experienced the biggest increase in numbers included cricket, which has seen nearly a 50 per cent rise in participation since 2013/14.

Golf, basketball, athletics and tennis have also seen increased participation in recent years.

The Scottish Government has been working to promote sporting activity - from attracting major events to the country to boosting funding, including funding dedicated to encouraging women’s participation.

Clare Haughey, SNP MSP and deputy convenor of the health and sport committee, said the figures are “excellent news”.

She added: “2014 saw a number of great sporting events come to Scotland, with the Commonwealth Games taking place in Glasgow and Gleneagles hosting the Ryder Cup, and Scotland certainly seems to have been inspired by this by getting involved in all forms of sport, from basketball to golf, tennis to athletics.

“The importance of living active lifestyles at all ages cannot be underestimated helping to improve health and wellbeing for those involved. It is particularly encouraging to see more young people getting involved in sports, with involvement at a young age being vital in creating good examples for later life.

“With kids being inspired by our great Scottish athletes such as Andy Murray, Robbie Renwick and Eilidh Doyle, it’s no surprise more young people are getting involved.”