No Limits sports club, the first in Hackney to give disabled and non-disabled residents the chance to compete together, has been officially launched by Hackney’s Olympic and Paralympic ambassador Dervis Konuralp.

The paralympic swimmer and Hackney resident joined a group of under 16s taking part in an archery session at Clissold Leisure Centre.

Dervis, who trains at the London Fields Lido, said: “Sport is so accessible for children and is another means of achievement for them. It has helped me so much and I hope it can do the same for other young people.

“Not everyone will be a top class athlete who wins medals, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is encouraging everyone to get involved and become active at some level. The 2012 Games can inspire people of all ages and abilities to start taking getting active now.”

The club is the first of its kind in Hackney. It is free and offers adults and children the chance to join in with a wide range of sports, offering them the chance to request to try different activities.

It takes place every Monday at Clissold Leisure Centre with sessions for under 16s from 5 to 6pm, followed by over 16s sessions from 6 to 7pm. There is no need to register – just turn up.

The club is run in partnership by the Learning Trust, the borough’s leisure centre provider GLL and the Council’s 2012 Unit.

Cllr Guy Nicholson, Hackney Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, said: “The No Limits sports club is a great initiative which gives you a chance to get involved in great sport, to compete, have fun and meet new friends. No Limits captures the very spirit of London 2012, inspiring everybody to take up a new activity and enjoy a healthier lifestyle."

To find out more, contact Alan Walsh on 07974 891632 or awalsh@learningtrust.co.uk