This entry was posted on Wednesday, July 31st, 2013at 8:35 am by Active Nation

Inspiring A Generation In South Derbyshire

Sport participation in South Derbyshire is flourishing as the flame from the London Olympics continues to flicker brightly.

It is almost a year since the greatest show on earth began on July 27 2012, kick-starting a summer of unprecedented success for our athletes.

That success seems to be really playing a part in inspiring a generation. Attendance has jumped in the last year by more than 90,000 at the Green Bank Leisure Centre in Swadlincote and almost 30,000 at Etwall Leisure Centre, which was the Olympic training base for the Australian and Canadian badminton teams.

It is hoped that the upward trend will continue, with the biggest ever summer programme of activities now underway. Almost £2 million of external funding has also been secured to enhance leisure and cultural amenities across South Derbyshire.

Councillor John Lemmon, Chairman of Housing and Community Services at South Derbyshire District Council, said: “We know the powerful influence which sport can have in people’s lives and the positive contribution it can make to local communities.

“That is why we have pulled out all of the stops to develop grassroots sports in the area and offer opportunities for all ages to enjoy. The benefits of people choosing active lifestyles are immeasurable. We have grabbed this once in a lifetime opportunity with both hands, celebrating successes, recognising unsung heroes and creating a lasting and sustainable legacy.

“London 2012 brought the whole country together and, working with South Derbyshire Sport and Active Nation, we are bringing our vision to life in South Derbyshire.”

Supporting local talent continues to be a key priority, with 38 athletes reaping the rewards from the South Derbyshire Sports Grant and Pass Scheme so far this year. More are set to benefit when applications for the next funding round close on August 1.

As well as the free use of facilities at Green Bank and Etwall Leisure Centres, small financial grants are available towards training, travelling and the cost of specialist equipment.

Success stories abound, such as Thomas Taylor, from Etwall, who scooped a silver medal with the Great British archery team at the European Junior Cup in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Also on the rise is swimmer Lewis White, 13, from Swadlincote, who has won an array of titles and competitions as he seeks to join the Paralympics team in Brazil in four years.