THE Duchess of Cambridge is a fan of the sport—and it seems like the young people of Bolton are too.

Hockey was the latest sport to feature on the Bolton 2012 Games calendar yesterday.

Organisers said it was less about jolly hockey sticks and more about learning the skills and techniques needed to play the popular sport.

The sporting tournament was held at the Horwich Leisure Centre — and the rain failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the young people.

Twenty young boys and girls turned up for the session.

Katie Dean, from Bolton Hockey Club, said: “Rain is natural hockey weather and the young people were enthusiastic and really got involved.

“We started with a stick session explaining the basics of the game. They picked it up really quickly.

“After the session they took part in hockey games.”

In line with the other Bolton 2012 Games sports, medals were awarded to the young people who were seen to best embody the Olympic and Paralympic values.

Bolton 2012 Games have been organised by Bolton Lads and Girls Club and Bolton Council to bring the Olympic and Paralympic experience to young people in the borough.

More than 800 young people will have been given the chance to try 43 different sports run by 40 different clubs.

The idea is to showcase the wealth of sporting activities on offer in Bolton for young people.

The last sporting event will be held today in which young people will enjoy a game of badminton before the games close with a spectacular ceremony on Thursday. They have been running for six weeks.

To find out more about Bolton 2012 Games visit bolton.gov.uk/Bolton2012 or call Bolton Lads and Girls Club on 01204 540100.