Sports clubs and athletes in Ards and North Down can now benefit from financial assistance for travel, equipment, coaching and more, as well as up-to-date sporting news and the opportunity to influence the strategic direction of sport in the area. This will be delivered by Ards and North Down Borough Council through its new sports forum:
* act as a consultative body between the Council and the sporting community;
* contribute to the strategic direction of sport in the area;
* provide grants to support local sports organisations and athletes;
* keep its members informed of relevant sporting news.
Ards and North Down Borough Council has allocated £25,000 for 2015/16 sports forum grants. Affiliated sports clubs, organisations and athletes in the area are eligible to apply for funding. The grants categories include travel and assistance, events, coaching, equipment and seeding. Full details are available at:
www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/sports-forum
There is a three month wait before new members can apply for funding.
Speaking at the launch, Chair of Ards and North Down Sports Forum, Councillor Jimmy Menagh, said: “I am delighted that the Council has set up a sports forum for the area. Ards and North Down boasts top level clubs and athletes, as well as many wonderful recreational sports groups. It is important that we continue to nurture and develop local talent by supporting our clubs and athletes. Moreover, exercise is vital for optimum health. The sports forum provides a great mechanism for encouraging wide participation in leisure activities.”
To sign up to the forum telephone 0300 013 3333 and ask to speak to a member of the sports development team or visit the website.
