A GROUP for young people with disabilities from Newport marked the start of the Rio Paralympics by hosting a bowling Paralympic event.

The event, in conjunction with Belle Vue Bowling Club, took place in Belle Vue Park and has been deemed a success.

Lisa Collins, chairman of Meet, a friendship and socialising group for people aged 15-25 with disabilities, said: “It was a very good night. We all enjoyed.

“We had around 50 people, including members of the club, the youngsters and their parents, and we made teams which mixed the three.

“At the end, we had a small awards ceremony – with gold, silver and bronze medals.”

Meet, which was created a year ago and already has more than 100 members, received a £4,000 Big Lottery Fund earlier this year, meaning all their activities are free.

Amongst others, they’ve gone quad biking and paintballing this summer. They also had a pamper day for their female members and a day out at Celtic Manor for their male members.

“We’ll be applying for the money again, it makes such a difference to us,” said Mrs Collins. “Our group allows them to improve their socialising skills and make friends.

“They’re young people, they need to be active – if they don’t, they get isolated and depressed.”