St Albans is to enjoy a lasting Olympic legacy after it was revealed sand from the beach volleyball courts is to be transported to Verulamium Park. Locog is to donate thousands of tonnes of sand from the courts in Horse Guards Parade to create volleyball courts in the park.

The new courts, which should be ready for use in autumn, will be created next to the adiZone.

Councillor Mike Wakely, portfolio holder for sports, leisure and heritage at the council, said: “We are pleased the council’s bid has been successful and that Verulamium Park has been chosen as one of the six venues to receive the Olympic sand.

“The sand will be used to create a beach volleyball court of international competition standard.

“This is part of the council’s strategy to attract more visitors to the district. “It also builds on St Albans involvement with the Olympics after playing host to the Olympic Torch in July and the Paralympic Flame last weekend.

“Young people in the St Albans area who have been watching Team GB beach volleyball players battling it out live on TV will soon have the chance to try out this sport for themselves.”

St Albans is one of six venues across the country to gain a new court as part of a bid to get more people involved in the sport.

When the court is not being used for competitions it will be split into three smaller courts for practice sessions. The council will work with St Albans Harriers Volleyball Club and local schools to make sure the court is used as much as possible.

The courts will also be used for beach soccer, tennis, ultimate Frisbee and beach fitness sessions. Lisa Wainwright, chief executive of Volleyball England, said: “We are hoping the buzz around the London 2012 Olympic Games will inspire more people to try out beach volleyball as a fun and exciting new sport.

”It’s important that we provide accessible facilities to encourage more regular spectators and players.

“This project will help to create a legacy for volleyball and encourage young people in the St Albans area to adopt healthier, more active lifestyles, creating a sporting habit for life.”