Last week, I wrote a letter of support and thanks to many of the incredible sports and physical activity groups in St Helens North, many of whom are urgently seeking security, funding and clarity, in response to the devastating impact of COVID-19 on their existing revenue streams.

I wanted to draw their attention to Sport England’s new Community Emergency Fund, a £20 million initiative which can provide awards of between £300 to £10,000 and over, specifically helping struggling grassroots groups to meet their fixed cost obligations. It’s a real lifeline in these most perilous of times.

I would encourage all our fantastic sports and physical activity groups facing hardship to find out more and apply for funds if they meet the criteria, which can be done by visiting their website.

As the local MP, I will keep doing whatever it takes over the coming weeks and months to support grassroots sport; ensuring that it can thrive once again in the future.