Wyre Forest Sports Award - Letter to Kidderminster Shuttle

Dear Sir,

With the news full of economic doom and gloom and more violence in the Middle East, it is always a pleasure to see positive stories and events. It was with this in mind that I was delighted to attend the Wyre Forest Sports Awards last week at Kidderminster Town Hall.

All too often, attention is given to the more problematic side of our youth. Yet last Thursday, the incredible achievements of a huge number of Wyre Forest's younger residents were celebrated with the Sports Awards, sponsored by the Kidderminster Shuttle.

In a ceremony that lasted a couple of hours, success was celebrated by a large number of sports men and women, who participated in a wide variety of sports from rugby, football and athletics to archery, fencing and canoeing.  But what was truly inspirational was the level of achievement. Not only were a number of Wyre Forest's sports participants nationally ranked, but a number had represented their country in last year's Beijing Olympics.

Their success is down to a phenomenal level of dedication, hard work and vision - a level of commitment that is truly inspirational to us all. But all of the athletes who spoke were keen to reflect the dedication of the support they receive from family, coaches, sports clubs, other competitors and friends, all of whom help make their achievement possible.

So whilst the world seems to be sinking further into recession and gloom, it is important to remember that our next generation are striving for excellence, and they are doing it right here in Wyre Forest.

Mark Garnier

Conservative Parliamentary Candidate

Margaret Thatcher House

Kidderminster.