BASILDON sports clubs, schools and individuals are benefiting from Basildon Council's annual Sport and Physical Activity Development Grant.

At a meeting last night (Wednesday, 10 March) Basildon Council's Neighbourhoods and Public Spaces Committee heard how more than £7,000 was awarded in the year 2020/21.

Under the scheme, individuals can apply for up to £500 and clubs, groups and organisations can apply for up to £1,000.

Seventeen applications were received, 10 of which were successful, resulting in a total of £7,123.77 being awarded to a wide range of clubs and organisations along with one individual.

Chairman of the Neighbourhoods and Public Spaces Committee Cllr David Harrison said: "I am particularly proud of the good that this fund can do and I think it's great to see such a diverse array of applicants.

"The last year has been incredibly difficult for everyone and none more so than for clubs and organisations who have had their activities curtailed by the lockdowns. Sports and activity are crucial for mental and physical wellbeing and we will do all we can to support people in doing this."

Among the successful applicants were St Theresa's Catholic Primary School in Basildon which received £626 for circuit training equipment. Basildon and Pitsea Cricket Club which plays at Mopsies Park received £1,000 towards the refurbishment of its artificial wicket and Maru Karate Kai got £640 to help them run online sessions and training during the pandemic.

Swan Housing, The Run Fit Club, Laindon Orient FC, Redwing Youth FC, Mayflower Archers and one individual were also successful in gaining funding.