The Dutch government has set aside €6m to encourage people with a handicap to take up sport.

Sports minister Edith Schippers has called on sports clubs and associations to create more options for people with a handicap to join and take part.

‘Sport is good for physical and mental health and people who are less physically able should be able to take part close to home,’ Schippers said.

Research shows that people with physical issues are less likely to take part in sport because of a range of practical problems.

Some 44% of the Dutch population at large are members of a sports club but only 14% of those with a physical handicap.