YOUNGSTERS in Inverclyde enjoyed a course of fun and strength-building at the Beacon Arts Centre.

An aerial dance programme for disabled and autistic young people, called Creatability, proved very popular.

Staff at the Beacon worked with specialist tutors from All or Nothing Aerial Dance and Waterbaby Dance to help the young people develop strength, balance and agility while having fun and making new friends.

Around 30 children took part in the classes, funded by the Post Code Lottery.

One of the organisers, Gail Sneddon, said: "This was the third year running the classes and we had lots of new pupils starting.

"From day one they have become more confident and have built up strength without even realising.

"Not only do they build up strength and co-ordination and improve their flexibility but they have fun, make friends and improve their communication skills.

"They all seem to have enjoyed it and had a good time."

One parent, Angela Kincaid, whose son Luke McDermott, 10, attended the class, said: "Luke has Asperger's and had taken part in a similar class with Reach for Autism a few years ago.

"He was anxious initially but remembered how much he enjoyed it and got really excited.

"He loved it, he met new friends and it helped to build up his strength while just having fun."

Organisers are looking ahead to the summer programme.

To register email gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk