Tendring has taken a significant step towards a healthier future this week, as sports clubs, coaches, and wellbeing champions came together for the district’s first-ever Sports and Activity Conference.

Hosted by Tendring District Council (TDC) at the Princes Theatre in Clacton on Monday (19 May), the event was a vibrant celebration of the district’s passion for physical activity - and a launchpad for real change.

The conference, which marked the beginning of a new, community-focused approach to getting people active, featured lively discussions, practical workshops, and valuable networking opportunities, including with national governing bodies.

Attendees took part in interactive sessions covering everything from boosting participation in sport and physical activity, to strengthening clubs and organisations, and unlocking funding opportunities.

The event saw the unveiling of several exciting new initiatives, including plans for new playzones across Tendring, a new cycle facility at Clacton Leisure Centre, new grant schemes, and targeted activities for residents with disabilities and life-limiting illnesses - ensuring more people can get involved, more often.

Councillor Mick Barry, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, said: "Today’s first-ever Sports and Activity Conference was a fantastic showcase of the passion and potential we have across Tendring.

"I’m proud that we will be taking action aimed at getting more people active, more often.

"We know the health challenges we face - from lower healthy life expectancy in our most deprived areas to the highest rates of childhood obesity in Essex.

“That’s why our new five-year Sport and Activity Strategy is so important. It’s about taking activity beyond our excellent leisure centres and into our communities - making it part of everyday life.

“From walking and cycling to open water swimming and gardening, we’re championing a broad and inclusive vision for physical activity, aimed at improving access and infrastructure for all.

“And with the support of our new community sport and activity manager, and strong partnerships across the district, we’re ready to make a real difference."

The event featured keynote speeches from Jason Fergus of Active Essex, who highlighted the power of collaboration in increasing activity levels, and Rory Doyle, strategic director of the North East Essex Health Alliance, who spoke about the transformative impact of physical activity on community wellbeing.

British karate champion Rebecca Marshall, pictured above with Councillor Mick Barry, also took to the stage to share her story about 'The Power of Sport'.

A bustling marketplace showcased the latest in sports equipment, technology, and community initiatives - giving local clubs and organisations fresh ideas and resources to take back to their communities.

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