Sports and Active Leisure strategy launched for consultation

North Norfolk District Council is launching consultation of its Sports and Active Leisure strategy at BeWILDerwood on Thursday 16 September, to coincide with the Tour of Britain cycle race as it passes the attraction on its way to the stage finish at Great Yarmouth.

Representatives from sports bodies including Sport England and Active Norfolk, local sports clubs and schools, the local tourism industry, and local authorities will see the strategy ceremoniously delivered to the Chairman of North Norfolk District Council, Cllr. Gloria Lisher, by pupils of St. John’s Primary School, Hoveton, who will cycle from their school to the event specially.

The strategy focuses on increasing participation in sport and physical activity across the District. This will be achieved via four objectives, widening access, improving and strengthening local partnerships, developing the local infrastructure and raising the profile of sport in North Norfolk.

To help mark the day children at St. John’s Primary School will be creating special artwork to celebrate the Tour, as well as undertaking cycling activities during the day. Holt Primary School pupils will also be joining in the action, watching the Tour as it passes their school and participating in more cycling activities, led by fully trained British Cycling Go-Ride coaches, supported by NNDC, and NNDC Sports Centre staff.

“We are very fortunate to have so many sporting opportunities in North Norfolk, and we want to encourage everyone to get out and get actively involved in sport, whether as a participant or as a volunteer helper,” said Cllr. Hilary Nelson, Cabinet Portfolio holder for Sport and Leisure for NNDC. “We are even more fortunate to be able to launch the strategy for consultation on the same day as the Tour of Britain passes through the District. It’s something that should encourage everyone to get out, get active and get on their bike!”

“This isn’t a one-off activity,” said Karl Read, NNDC Leisure and Cultural Services Manager.  “The strategy outlines many ways in which we intend to promote participation in sport in North Norfolk. For example, just as far as cycling is concerned we’re setting up a Cycling Development Group very soon to encourage more people to participate in cycling and of course we’re hoping that everyone will support the sponsored ride taking place on 25 September, from Sheringham to Wells, in support of the Tour of Britain’s official charity, the Prostate Charity.”

ENDS