Sports therapy students from Norwich City College are providing relief to sportsmen and women over the coming months.

This weekend the students, currently working towards Level 3 Certificates in Sports, Massage and Fitness, worked at the overnight Dusk 'til Dawn 12-hour endurance mountain bike race at High Lodge, Thetford Forest. The students, who are part of the Extreme Sports Therapy Unit, helped the athletes by providing sports massage to revive aching muscles.

These oportunities help the students to develop their practical ability, communication skills and confidence, which are important qualities when working in the sports industry.

Sarah Wilson, 21, from Beccles, who is studying for a foundation degree in sport, health and exercise at Norwich City College, said 'The course is brilliant, really good fun - I love it! I joined the unit when it first started three years ago, I used to have to practice on friends and family but now I can work with real athletes and get experience in the industry.'

Sarah, who aspires to specialise as a football physiotherapist, thinks the unit has definitely helped her to gain a place on her degree course, as she already had relevant work experience which gave her the edge over other candidates.

The Extreme Sports Therapy Unit will also be attending the Thetford MTB - WHTYE Winter Series in Norfolk this winter where the students will be helping the athletes prepare and recover from the event.

John Vincent, curriculum programme manager for sport and enhancement, said: 'These students work incredibly hard, giving up time at weekends to go out and provide the service for competitors at these events. I am sure the unit will have another busy and successful year.'

Paul Hawes, promoter for Thetford MTB Racing, said: 'It is a great benefit to have the Extreme Sports Therapy Unit attending our events. They have been of great help to our competitors over the last couple of years.'

To find out about getting the Extreme Sports Therapy Unit involved at your event visit www.ccnxsports.co.uk.

Are you learning new skills and putting them into practice in an unusual way? Contact us on 01603 772443 or email newsdesk@archant.co.uk.