A pioneering move to inspire people to lead more positive and healthy lifestyles by harnessing the power of sport has been launched by Keighley Cougars.

Community Cougars Foun-dation, a charitable trust, will provide a platform for people to promote community participation in recreation, by providing facilities and opportunities for the playing of rugby league and other sports capable of improving health.

The foundation was formally launched at Cougar Park last Friday by Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain forward Barrie McDermott in front of an audience of invited guests including the Lord Mayor of Bradford Cllr Robin Owens and the mayoress and the Mayor of Keighley Cllr Brian Hudson and Mayoress Cllr Maureen Hudson.

Foundation Director Matt Foster said: "The benefits we are aiming for are to get people healthier and more active and through that have a safer and stronger community with access to new opportunities and breaking down barriers."

The Foundation's charity trustees are Neil Spencer, chairman; and John Dennis, vice chairman. Neil is chairman of Keighley Cougars RLFC and John is co-ordinator of sportKeighley.

Other trustees include Ann Cryer MP; David Yates, Partnership Director for Connexions West Yorkshire; and, Helen Carter, general manager of Keighley Cougars.

The foundation which is aiming to raise £20,000 will focus on "five pillars of activity", Matt told the meeting.

They are sport and physical activity involving coaching in schools, both at primary and secondary levels; health awareness of diet and lifestyle through assemblies, forums, and workshops; education (literacy and numeracy) - a Cougar Pride Centre based at Cougar Park; social inclusion/community cohesion - integrating communities and giving opportunities through the power of sport; arts and culture - a Heritage Centre and website based on Keighley and its rich history.