THE minister for sport has commended a Leyton sports programme for its part in the success of a national scheme.

Kickz, the football project working with disadvantaged youngsters in the UK, won the Community Programme Award at the 2009 Sports Industry Awards.

Leyton Orient Community Sports Programme runs Kickz sessions in three centres in Waltham Forest, as well as in Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Hackney.

And minister for sport Gerry Sutcliffe MP said: “Winning a Sport Industry Award is no easy task so this recognition just goes to show what a triumph Kickz has been nationwide.

“Everyone working on Kickz has played their part and should be proud of the positive impact they've had on the lives of tens of thousands of young people.

“I want to congratulate Leyton Orient Community Sports Programme's staff and their local partners for their work in making Kickz the success story it is.”

Kickz began in 2006 and runs a total of 106 projects around the UK, three nights a week.

It is run in conjunction with local football clubs, councils and police forces and has also played a part in reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.