LOCAL amateur sports clubs are being urged to take advantage of a Government scheme to encourage the next generation of sports stars.

The tax-relief scheme for Community Amateur Sports Clubs on their income and donations has been extended to benefit an even greater number of organisations.

All clubs that register enjoy exemption from corporation tax on interest, any trading income up to £15,000 and income from property up to £10,000.

And the new rule, which starts from April, will see corporation tax exemptions double from £15,000 to £30,000 and from £10,000 to £20,000, removing the burden of the annual tax return for even more clubs.

Application forms and further details of the scheme can be obtained from the Inland Revenue's website at www.inland- revenue.gov.uk