Andrew Pelling

Allstarz look to lucky stars

18 January 2010

Local gymnastics group needs financial support

Local gymnastics club Allstarz turns out champions regularly, but the club is in desperate need of financial support. I asked Minister of State at the Department of Culture Media and Sport, Margaret Hodge, what could be done to help.

I set out today's Commons exchange below:

Mr. Andrew Pelling (Croydon, Central) (Ind):

The AllStarz gymnastics group has benefited from the Government’s extended schools programme, a supportive community school, Addington High, and the local authority, but its continued existence is somewhat compromised by financial difficulties. I know that English Gymnastics and Sport England are supportive, but where should I turn to try and get proper support for the group?

Margaret Hodge:

The voluntary sector in arts and particularly dance activities is hugely important. There are some 50,000 voluntary organisations, and nearly 10 million people participate in some way in voluntary organisations in the arts and culture sector, so it is vital that we do all that we can to maintain and grow that sector. Dance is crucial not only for what it does for individuals’ health, but because it is an innovative and creative art form. We have invested more than £5 million in a dance strategy for young people. I urge the hon. Gentleman—

Mr. Speaker:

Order. May I gently say to the right hon. Lady that at topical questions I am always keen to get through the lot, if humanly possible? I appreciate the comprehensiveness, but we must move on.