Andrew Miller, MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, has met representatives from the world of sport and recreation to find out more about the challenges facing community clubs in his constituency.

Attending an event held in Parliament by the Sport and Recreation Alliance, the umbrella organisation for the governing bodies of sport, Andrew spoke with England cricketers Mike Gatting and Angus Fraser, as well as club representatives, about how grassroots clubs are faring in the current economic climate.

New data released by the Sport and Recreation Alliance at the reception shows that a quarter of all sports clubs are currently operating at a loss, with half just managing to break even. It also revealed that those clubs making a surplus have seen it almost halve over the last two years.

Andrew Miller said:

“Community sports clubs are a vital part of the fabric of our society but many are finding it harder and harder just to survive.  Clubs in my constituency do a wonderful job and I am always willing to listen to their concerns and try to do something about them; that is why I have signed up to the pledge for sport.”

Ends

27^th October 2011

Photo shows Andrew Miller signing the ‘pledge for sport’.