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Controversy is raging at the moment about the government Active People Survey because the results are alarming if the figures are correct. According to the survey despite all the money, and we are talking millions, that has been poured into community sport the number of 16 to 19 years old actively taking part in sport has fallen in real terms. This is very disquieting.

It is well recognised that sport in any form is beneficial at any age, and there appears to have been an increase in the number of older people becoming actively involved in sport, whether it is walking, swimming, cycling or jogging. This is to be applauded. The idea of encouraging sporting pastimes to younger people is very sound, good habits early on are laudable. If someone is interested in keeping fit, or in playing sport in general they tend to retain this throughout their life.

I suggest that this survey and the target area are basically flawed. I believe that 16 - 19 years old is far too late, even 14 year olds is too late. The focus should be on much younger children, primary school age at least. This is where resources should be targeted to build in good habits as early as possible. It is fun for a 7 year old to take on the challenge of playing basketball, not quite so "cool" for an older teenager.

Also there is no need to pour lots of money in to new buildings. Why not develop an existing resource? I mean of course the school playground. Every school has one; some schools also have the luxury of playing fields. In a small way some schools are already making a contribution with playground equipment in their play areas. These are essentially for fun during breaks, but far-sighted schools are already using these as part of their P.E. curriculum. A well designed trim trail, or play equipment can be a very valuable resource. They can easily be put to good educational use and more importantly get youngsters interested in sport and viewing keeping fit as a good thing. The great thing is that once the equipment is there pupils will choose to play on it at break times and the community can have access outside of school hours.

It would be good to think that the people involved with this initiative, would stop panicking and changing the goal posts. Instead let them go back to basics and put the money where it will do more good - into school playgrounds.