THIS summer a host of Haringey sports clubs is offering free sports coaching and sessions to get more people active in the run-up to London 2012.

The Play Sport London initiative, backed by the Mayor's office, will see residents trying out traditional sports like rugby, netball and basketball —at no cost — in a bid to tempt them to take up the sport permanently.

More extreme sports like boxing, roller-skating, canoeing and kayaking will also be offered.

It follows Summer of Sport, an initiative launched last year, which reached around 8,000 Londoners.

Olive Taylor, organiser of ASCO Netball Summer, based in Haringey, hoped that Play Sport London's "aggressive marketing" would return welcome results.

She said: "In 2007, the turnout was quite poor, but last year we more than doubled our numbers.

"Play Sport London has helped us by advertising in schools, and we've posted leaflets in the area and to those that took part last summer.

"Hopefully there will be even more participants this year. Last time round the weather was really good, so I've got my fingers crossed for more sunshine."

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has backed the scheme, which is run and funded by the London Development Agency.

Mr Johnson said: "Whatever your age or ability, Play Sport London is a brilliant opportunity to try something new or get coaching in a sport you already enjoy."

For more information of what's available in Haringey between now and September 30 visit www.london.gov.uk/playsport.