Funding boost for Badenoch and Strathspey sports clubs

Sports clubs, groups and individuals in the Badenoch and Strathspey area are being told to get on their marks for the latest round of grants being offered by the local sports council.

Funding of £9,800 has recently been approved by Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey Enterprise (INBSE) towards assisting sporting clubs and individuals that are affiliated to the sports council achieve a higher competitive standard in their particular sports.

This funding, which matches that of the Highland Council, will be channelled through Badenoch and Strathspey Sports Council which creates a more streamlined application process for potential applicants.

Colin Grant, development manager at INBSE said: "These funds will help increase the profile of elite athletes and sports development in the Badenoch and Strathspey area.  Excellence in sport through effective coaching, the purchase of sports equipment and assisting new sports groups become established are all eligible under the scheme.

"Helping our athletes achieve better results has a knock on effect in that it encourages more people to participate in sport - particularly young people. Sport also has an important place in our local and national culture and better performances will really help put Badenoch and Strathspey on the map in the future."

Badenoch and Strathspey Sports Council chairman John MacBean said: "Badenoch and Strathspey has had its fair share of sporting greats in the past and we hope this funding may be the start of creating more talent than ever before.

"We are delighted INBSE have assisted the sports council to this extent which will allow sports clubs to develop even further in Badenoch and Strathspey."

Local clubs should have received a letter by now explaining that the next deadline for applications is 30 November 2005. For further information about Badenoch and Strathspey Sports Council contact John Nethercott on 01479 811200.