A COMPANY which helps disadvantaged children by giving them sporting opportunities has opened a new store in Dunstable.

Sports Traider, which has branches across the country, was officially opened earlier this month in The Quadrant, Dunstable.

Sports Traider is a youth focused charity who has helped thousands of children to participate and excel in sport, in cases where it would not be normally available to them.

Lance Haggith, founder of Sports Traider said: "I am really pleased that we are able to bring Sports Traider to Dunstable and be able to help make a difference to disabled and disadvantaged kids in the area by giving sporting opportunities."

In attendance at the opening was BBC Sports Personality of the Year Unsung Hero winner Mr Haggith, Mayor of Dunstable Cllr Peter Hollick, former Premier League footballer John Moncur, former Luton Town player Ed Stein, Jeff Caiger from Central Bedfordshire Council and the new shop's manager Kevin Geaney.

Jason Longhurst, Director of Regeneration and Business said: "Central Bedfordshire Council is always keen to attract new businesses to the area and we are delighted that Sports Traider has chosen The Quadrant in Dunstable to open their new store.

"Our Inward Investment Team worked closely with Sports Traider to identify the new store and was able to provide further support from the Business Support and Growth Fund, which was a key factor in deciding to open a store in Dunstable.

"We look forward to continuing to work closely with Sports Traider to support their growth plans and the local community".

Photo: The opening of the new store