Sport England chief executive makes a virtual visit to Withernsea

The chief executive of Sport England got a virtual view of how the Active Withernsea pilot is working to create a happier and healthier community.

Lockdown restrictions meant that Tim Hollingsworth MBE was not able to visit the East Yorkshire coast in person, but he tuned in last Friday to watch a series of videos and presentations about the work which is being done around the town.

There was even a cartoon of Tim parachuting into Withernsea which raised a few smiles before the 90-minute digital event got down to the serious matter of discussing the projects which have already started and plans for the future.

John Skidmore, director of adults, health and customer services at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: "I know Tim Hollingsworth was hugely impressed by his virtual visit and he told me afterwards he is looking forward to the day he can visit Withernsea in person.

"Tim commented on the team's ambition, determination and energy and said he could see that Active Withernsea is already making a real impact in the community.

"It was an excellent team effort and created a day we can all be proud of. The stories, videos and presentations really helped us to bring Active Withernsea to life.

"The feedback from some of the agencies involved has been overwhelmingly positive and we are all committed to seeing Withernsea flourish."

In August 2020, Sport England confirmed an investment of £1.4 million, phased funding for Active Withernsea until 2025.

The project aims to bring the community together and allow local people to take the lead on bringing forward ideas which will benefit their town and give them the tools to make them happen.

Areas such as increasing the opportunities for walking and cycling, developing open spaces, creating more activities for young people and developing a "Kickstarter" fund for new, innovative ideas have been identified so far.

Cllr Shaun Horton, portfolio holder for coastal regeneration and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: "The Active Withernsea team put across a great message in a really engaging and enlightening way.

"Clearly a lot of work and thought went into the virtual event."

To watch the videos and presentations, and to find out more about how to get involved, visit the Active Withernsea Facebook page.