A national prize given to community projects that make a difference through sport has been awarded to a Yorkshire charity which teaches people yoga.

Yorkshire Yoga has so far brought the discipline to more than 250 people in the region, who may have otherwise found classes difficult.

It has been awarded the 2009 BBC Power of Sport Award, in association with Sport England, in recognition of the difference it has made to the community.

Based in Knaresborough, the charity provides classes to a range of people, from pregnant mothers to the over 65s, in its “Golden Years Yoga” classes. It has also introduced an “Able and Enabled” class for people with physical and learning disabilites.

Julia Ellison, a wheelchair user, has been attending the Able and Enabled classes for almost six years. She said: “Being on the floor to do exercises is wonderful. This, along with the healthy exercise, can help with overall ‘well-being’ and help lift depression.”

Jennie Price, Sport England’s chief executive, said: “This award celebrates the power of sport to improve lives and enrich local communities. The Yorkshire Yoga programme proves just what can be achieved when you have great ideas backed by dedicated people.”