A RARE opportunity for local sports fans to train as coaches is currently on offer in the Bolton area.

The sports development units of Bolton and Wigan councils have forged a unique partnership to set out a comprehensive coaching programme.

And, as Bolton prepares a year-long run-up to the Commonwealth Games in July, 2002, some coaching is being heavily subsidised.

The badminton competition is being held at the new Arena at Middlebrook, thus raising the sport's profile locally and nationally.

Bolton now has its own Badminton Development Committee, and, as a result of all these moves, there is an opportunity to take the Badminton Leaders' Award or the Coach Part 1 qualification for a nominal fee.

The leaders' course is normally £45 but is only £10 for people willing to assist with badminton development in the Bolton and Wigan areas. The next course is on Saturday, April 28 at Harper Green leisure centre in Farnworth.

And the Coach Part 1, which usually costs £200, will be available for just £65 for those prepared to help boost local badminton.

Contact Bolton sports development officer Dave Evitts on 01204 334092 to find out more.

Other coaching qualifications are also available in the next month or two in basketball, hockey, netball, football, rugby league, rugby union and swimming.

And there are further courses available throughout the year in tennis, cricket and gymnastics, plus others in emergency first aid for sport and child protection among others.

Dave Evitts said: "These courses are to encourage more people within the communities of Bolton and Wigan to go into coaching at an early age.

"Once they are qualified, this will ensure quality training for youngsters in specific sports now and in the future."