SPORTS clubs around Chelmsford have seen more people coming through their doors since the Olympics finished.

Some teams and venues in the city have seen their attendances for training sessions rise by as much as 80 per cent.

These include the Chelmsford Sport and Athletics Centre, in Salerno Way, which has seen more than 100 children turn up for Saturday morning sessions set up to introduce youngsters to track and field.

A number of adult swimmers have also taken the plunge into the pool at Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre while Chelmsford Swimming Club has seen an influx of youths join them.

Michael Veasey, the club’s chairman, said the response since the Games has been fantastic and is even leading on to new ideas within the club.

Mr Veasey said: “We are delighted with the response we have seen from the children and teenagers in Chelmsford who want to follow in the footsteps of our Olympic heroes and dedicate their time and energy to represent their city as part of Chelmsford Swimming Club.

“We have experienced unheard of levels of demand in all areas of the club, since the Olympic Games, and to support our growing numbers we will be introducing a new 'City Swim Team' for those that aim to compete at the highest level.”

Dovedale Sport Centre, in Vicarage Lane, and South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre, in Trinity Square, have also reported more participants in sports like Badminton and Football showing up.

Ray Ride, Chelmsford councillor responsible for leisure and culture, said seeing more residents of all ages getting active was great to see.

He added: “It is good to see so many people enjoying the many sports on offer at our first class leisure centres.”