SPORT Tynedale was formed in 1974 as Tynedale Sports Council by local enthusiasts who recognised the challenges that local sports people faced living in one of the more remote parts of the country.
Grants have been delivered for over 50 years to aspiring sporting folk who were achieving at a high level. These grants were initially funded with the help of Tynedale Council, Parish and Town Councils as well as clubs themselves. Since the demise of Tynedale Council, funds have continued to be raised with the remaining organisations along with a move into sponsorship.
Sport Tynedale's first sponsor was Tyne Valley Insurance, and then Essity and Red Hot Properties, with Egger (UK) Ltd taking over in recent years.
The group also offers the Stan Calvert bursary, currently sponsored by NFU Mutual, Hexham, which comprises a £600 grant to a young person attaining high levels of success.
Edward Heslop joined the organisation in 1999, and has just stepped down as Chairman after 12 years in the role.
He said: ''The development of sport in the area has broadened so much since the start of our organisation but many of the challenges remain the same.
''I am proud or our achievements over the years but now is the time to move on under the chairmanship of Gareth Jones.''
He added: ''Never underestimate the effect the influence sport can have on developing young people.''
Gareth's involvement with Sport Tynedale initially began as a Sponsor, having been invited by Edward Heslop to attend an Awards Evening in 2013. At the event, he was immediately struck by the depth of talent across our region and also the fabulous support provided by Sport Tynedale to athletes, clubs and coaches.
Gareth said: ''When I sold my business (Red Hot Properties) in 2019, I was invited to join the Committee and subsequently became Vice-Chairman. During this period, I gained an insightful knowledge of the history and background to Sport Tynedale, and how they had developed over the last 50 years.
''Having now taken over as Chairman, I am excited that the Committee is fully supportive of a forward-thinking strategy towards our future development.
''We have ambitious plans in place to boost both our profile and involvement with clubs, coaches and athletes, and to also increase our incoming sources of funds.
''As an entirely volunteer led and non-profit organisation, every penny we receive goes back out in grants to those we exist to support.
''Therefore, the more funds we raise the greater the levels of support we can provide. If anyone would like to discuss potential sponsorship, or advertising opportunities, I would be delighted to speak with them.
''We are also developing a communications 'hub' for the 200 clubs in our region. The intention is to provide a central point where clubs can share information, their expertise, ideas, experiences or even simply request help and support. This will provide a direct link for all club officials, similar to a 'linked-in' access point, and all registered clubs will be given free access. It will create a great opportunity to open doors and bring our sporting community even closer together.
''I am looking forward to our 51st Annual Awards evening on Sunday 30th November at the Tynedale Function Suite, Hexham Mart which is kindly supported bu our event sponsor Egger (UK) Ltd. As an organisation, they completely share our ethos and approach towards community focused initiatives, and I am delighted that they continue to partner us in such a generous manner.''
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