YOUNGSTERS had the chance to try everything from horse riding to canoeing at the Devizes Lions sports coaching weekend.

Around 500 children took part in the event which has been a regular fixture on the Devizes calendar for 27 years,

Some of those now instructing had first tried their sport on a Lions course.

Among those was Hamish Devon of Hillier Road, Devizes, who is now chairman of Devizes Badminton Club. He went on the weekend as ten-year-old when he was a pupil at Rowde School. He now teaches at Wansdyke.

Archery proved popular with youngsters and one of those from Devizes Bowmen showing how it should be done was Joe Gurr, 12.

He tried the sport for the first time two years ago with the Lions and he is now a member of the junior county team and holds two county and a regional record.

Lion Jerry King visited 22 schools to let pupils know what was on offer.

He said: "The skills and kindness of the coaches and the enthusiasm of the youngsters make it a very special weekend in the Lions calendar."