As I write, we have just come to the end of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. What a fantastic Games, and yet again Lougborough has shown its sporting dominance. It was great to see so many athletes with Loughborough connections competing and to celebrate their successes. Had Loughborough been a country in our own right, we would have come sixth in the medal table! A remarkable achievement and congratulations to all who have won medals. I would also like to place on record my thanks to all constituents who volunteered at the Games ensuring they were a success.
Talking of sporting success, it would be remiss of me not to mention the Lionesses and their stunning win in the Euros recently. Many of the team have Loughborough connections, including Loughborough University alumna goalkeeper Mary Earps, Ellen White and Jill Scott both studied at Loughborough College. My congratulations go to all the Lionesses – the whole country is very proud.
Loughborough’s success at major sporting tournaments is a result of several decades of investment in sport locally. I was hugely encouraged by the recent award to Loughborough College of £9.91m by Department for Education (DfE) to create a new three-storey, 3,000-sqm state-of-art sports hub. I am delighted that the bid, which I enthusiastically supported, was successful. The new building will house a modern sports hall with viewing terrace. It will also feature contemporary classrooms, flexible learning spaces, breakout areas and a small staff base. It was one of only 62 colleges nationwide to be successful in bids. I very much look forward to visiting when it is open.
Loughborough’s sporting excellence is a theme that often crops up in my job and I am proud of the many sporting organisations who choose to base themselves here. In September, we look forward to welcoming the National Football League’s UK-based NFL Academy when it relocates from London. The NFL Academy attracts students from all over the UK and Europe and has been a place where emerging football talent is nurtured. For more information about the NFL Academy, visit: https://www.nflacademy.com/
As ever, if I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Jane Hunt MP
