WEST Wirral Trust for Sport has achieved charitable status and is putting in a Lottery bid to build a community sports centre and swimming pool.

Over the next three months an extensive publicity and fund raising campaign will take place to raise over £300,000 required to match the Lottery bid.

Along with other small grants available, the Trust is hoping that charitable giving companies and the local authority will be able to provide a substantial amount of the funds.

The Lottery can only provide 80% of their cost, and with other areas in Wirral receiving help towards their Lottery bids, it is important that the areas Heswall, Irby, Pensby, Gayton, Barnston, Thingwall and Thurstaston are given the same financial provision to obtain their own Community Sports Centre, says Trust spokesperson Yvonne Eassan.

The proposed site on Irby Road has already received outline planning permission, and fits the criteria regarding obtaining Lottery money and other funds.

Throughout the five years the West Wirral Trust for Sport has been lobbying for support and grants, the local community has helped in many ways. But the Trust needs a new concerted effort by all residents, and the local authority, if the area is not to lose the opportunity to receive a Lottery grant for sports facilities.

Residents involved in sport, either as an organiser or as a participant, could help by writing letters of support for the project, stating why they think it is important they should have a sports centre and swimming pool in their area.

These letters should be sent as soon as possible to Mr. S. Burke, 67 Bridgenorth Road, Pensby, L61 8SH, as they will be used as part of the communities commitment file, to help justify a Lottery bid. Residents who would like to help either through their companies, or as individuals, can gain further information on 342-4066.

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