It focuses on the use of games to develop fitness whilst enhancing agility, co-ordination and balance - all fundamental to longer term physical athletic development.

Irish Long Jump Record Holder Kelly Proper, Ambassador for the Forest Feast Little Athletics Programme, was on hand to officially launch the partnership.

She said: "The Forest Feast Little Athletics programme is fantastic for young children to be a part of. It encourages them to get active, develop their athletic ability and importantly have fun while doing so. Their involvement will help form a solid foundation for their future sporting life."

The Forest Feast Little Athletics programme is delivered in athletic clubs nationwide.

Throughout the year there will be four regional Jamborees which will see various clubs coming together for fun challenges and group activities.

Forest Feast Field Sales Manager Christine Whelan said: "We firmly believe that establishing healthy habits at a young age is crucial for later life. For that reason we're committed to supporting grassroots sports and are proud to come on board as title sponsor of Little Athletics."

Forest Feast develop dried fruit and nut snack options.