YOUNG people from deprived Glasgow communities are being invited to apply for more than 50 job vacancies at a new sports facility.

Thanks to a partnership between regeneration agency, Clyde Gateway and Glasgow Life, people aged 16 to 25 in Dalmarnock, Bridgeton, Rutherglen and Toryglen, registered with either Skills Development Scotland or Job Centre Plus as unemployed, are eligible to join a new vocational training scheme. The first intake will start later this month.

Completion of the 12 week programme will guarantee an interview for 55 Leisure Attendant positions at the new £100 million Commonwealth Sports Arena and Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, due to open in Dalmarnock later this year.

The arena and velodrome will be key locations for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Participants will be involved in a wide range of activities – including sports coaching and lifeguard training – delivered by Street League, a Glasgow-based organisation with a successful track record of supporting young people and adults into employment or further education through sport.

Participants' benefits will not be affected and they will receive a travel allowance and sports kit.

The programme will also include a minimum of 30 hours' work experience in existing sports facilities operated by Glasgow Life, such as Bellahouston, Scotstoun and Kelvin Hall leisure facilities.

George Redmond, chairman of Glasgow Life and a board member at Clyde Gateway, said: "The arena and velodrome will be one of the biggest and best indoor sports and leisure centres of its type in Europe.

"We have always said that part of the legacy from the construction of the new facility will be the jobs spin-off for local residents.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for young people who are currently unemployed to land a secure and well-paid job with future career prospects in sports and leisure."

Councillor Gordon Matheson, leader of Glasgow City Council, said: "The companies involved in building the arena and velodrome have played a significant role in ensuring local people benefit from the work, not least with the number of apprentice places created.

"So I'm delighted that Glasgow Life, which will operate the venue on the council's behalf, are continuing in partnership with Clyde Gateway to ensure there are benefits to the local community through this project."

Call Joe or Gillian at Street League on 0141 2856440 or email glasgow@streetleague.co.uk for more information.