Eastern European and Asian men living in Ipswich can take part in a new sporting project aimed at bringing different communities together.

Working in partnership with the Bangladeshi Support Centre, Inspire Suffolk will run the sports and citizenship programme for men under the age of 30 living in the Norwich Road area of the town.

The 12-month scheme will be based around sport, primarily football, but will include training in other skills, such as English language, citizenship and IT.

It has been funded by Suffolk’s police and crime commissioner, Tim Passmore.

Attending the weekly two hour sessions will an outreach worker from the Bangladeshi Support Centre, sports coaches, police and other volunteers.

Terry Baxter, CEO for Inspire Suffolk, said: “We know first-hand how extremely effective sport can be as a channel to engage with young people.

“The grant will allow us to connect with participants with the aim of a community that works together and helps to promote a better understanding of the diverse cultures and backgrounds in the area.”