THE search is on for young netball stars as training sessions and a new Worcester league have been set up to raise the sport's profile.

An intermediate league for six to 15-year-olds will start in September to boost the flagging popularity of the sport in the city.

The city council's new sports development coach, Becky Giles, is also planning a summer summer camp to hone the skills of the youngsters -- hopefully for international honours.

"Netball seems to have lost some of its popularity in Worcester over recent years and that's the issue I'm aiming to address," said the 22-year-old, who represented the Welsh Universities while studying in Cardiff.

Mission

As part of her mission to discover future England stars, she is launching a programme of coaching sessions and friendlies at Under 11 and Under 16 age groups.

The sessions will take place at Bishop Perowne CE High School, off Merriman's Hill Road, Worcester, and organisers will also be looking for volunteers to help with the coaching.

Under 16s will meet every Monday, starting next week, while the Under 11s will train on Thursdays, from January 20. Each session costs £1.

Still an active player for Worcestershire and the England Netball Young Volunteer programme, Giles is also a trained umpire.

Last year she was selected to be part of the Worcestershire Active Sport and England Netball Scholarship Scheme.

To enrol on either of the courses, or to volunteer to assist at the sessions, call 01905- 722331 or e-mail rgiles@cityofworcester.gov.uk