Four sports clubs have become the first in the region to be accredited by Borders Sport and Leisure’s new Club Benefits scheme.
Outreach Judo (Peebles), Galashiels Boxing Club, Gala Fairydean Rovers Youth Football Club and P.H.D. Fundamentals (gymnastics) of West Linton have all achieved the required standard to join the scheme which aims to recognise and reward clubs for their effectiveness, safety and organisational standards.
The clubs are now entitled to a host of special benefits, including free workshop places, discounted rates for first aid courses, discounts when booking BSL facilities and priority status for certain funding and scholarship applications.
Ewan Jackson, chief executive of Borders Sport and Leisure, said: “Our accreditation scheme rewards clubs that are safe, well-organised and benefit the local community.
“The scheme was only launched at the end of April, so it is great news that these clubs have made such quick progress in gaining accreditation and I hope that many more will follow suit.”
Colin Aitken from Outreach Judo said: “I attended the launch of the programme in the fantastic new Peebles High School facility in April and in a short space of time my club is now an accredited club with Borders Sport and Leisure.
“The process is easy, wasn’t time consuming and just reinforces all the good practice that is in place at the club.”
Danny Kelly from Galashiels Boxing Club added: “As a relatively new club we continue to grow from strength to strength, and this award is great recognition for all the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes.”
There are more than 200 sports clubs in the Borders and the new BSL Accreditation and Club Benefits package is available to them all, irrespective of size or membership numbers.
Call Border Sport and Leisure on 01896 661 166 to obtain a full information pack.