THANKS to construction company B&E Boys, the future of Rossendale Schools’ Athletics Competition is secure.
In the summer term the fixture was forced to be cancelled as heavy rain was forecast and the venue, Seedhill Athletics Track in Nelson, is outdoors.
In September it was rearranged to the prestigious City of Manchester Athletics Stadium at Sportcity in Manchester. Although still an outdoor venue, the track and spectator seating has a canopy so inclement weather is not an issue.
Haslingden High School PE Teacher Erika Wilson said: “We were fortunate to be able to hire facilities at Sportcity, with the impressive backdrop of the Ethiad Stadium of Manchester City. It was a fantastic experience.”
The athletics team from BRGS won the 2016 event.
However the cost was considerably more – £70 for Seedhill but £672 for Sportcity. As the schools wanted the event to go ahead they agreed to split the extra cost between them.
Head of PE at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School Brendan Baird decided to approach B&E Boys as the company’s base is close to the school and relatives of the owners have attended BRGS.
Mr Baird said: “B&E Boys had helped Rossendale Schools’ Football Tournament, which was held at Bacup Borough.
“Georgia Boys is an ex-pupil so I discussed the athletics cost with her mum Jodi. Fortunately her husband John is a director with B & E Boys and the company very generously agreed to provide £500 towards the athletics competition.
“This is a great help towards the cost of the facility in Manchester and it also means that we know it will always be able to go ahead, whatever the weather.
“We have already booked next year’s Rossendale Schools’ Athletics Competition and it will be held on July 3.
“We had some parents come along this year to support their children and we are hoping for a lot more next year. Especially as they now know it is being held at a top venue and they will be undercover.”
Harry Boys, the son of fellow director Peter Boys also attended BRGS 6th Form. John said: “B&E Boys Limited supports a number of local sports activities for children in the area.”