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Badenoch and Strathspey sports body in danger of folding





The local sports council for Badenoch and Strathspey has warned it could have run its race come Spring unless more volunteers can be found.

The organisation was set up in the 1980s to support local sports clubs but a lack of volunteers could mean its days are numbered.

One of its remits is to distribute grant money to talented athletes, for coach education, club kit, sporting events and other good causes on behalf of Highland Council.

Hamish Irvine says volunteers are needed for sports council to continue its valuable work.
Hamish Irvine says volunteers are needed for sports council to continue its valuable work.

Badenoch and Strathspey Sports Council treasurer Hamish Irvine said: “We are very fortunate in this area in now having the three local sports hubs and a number of Active Schools co-ordinators.

“Together they do a great deal for sport including access to facilities, coach education and support and helping local school pupils to get into sport.

“There is, however, still a role for the sports council. Over the years it has awarded many grants.”

These have ranged from help with start-up funding for Strathspey Girls Football Club to funding local powerlifters in European championship competition and Nordic skiing for the GB national performance squad.

BSSC also regular helps fund training and qualification for club volunteers and in the past this has included shinty, tennis, gymnastics, and swimming.

The group has also assisted with providing snowsport opportunities for disabled people in the Highlands via DSUK. Mr Irvine said: “This funding – although relatively small amounts – often makes a big difference for an athlete or club.”

“BSSC also organises an annual sports award ceremony to acknowledge the achievements and effort of local coaches and athletes.

Mr Irvine said: “It is not quite the level of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards but it does allow us to recognise the tremendous effort and talent in the Badenoch and Strathspey sporting community.”

But at present the focus is on attracting new volunteers. Mr Irvine explained: “BSSC desperately needs new committee members. The current secretary, chair and I – as treasurer – are all stepping down at the next AGM.

“Unless these key roles are filled, BSSC will be unable to continue and this support for local sports clubs will be lost. We fully appreciate volunteers in local sport are already very busy but if people want their sports council to continue to exist then it will need some help.”

The committee meets six times a year and holds an AGM in May.

n For more information contact Mr Irvine by email at treasurer.bandssc@gmail.com . The deadline for responses is February 14.


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