On 9th July, the Minister of State for Schools and Learners, Jim Knight, along with Chris Holmes, a successful Paralympic swimmer, visited the North East Regional Education Centre at Benfield School. As a result of Sport England’s Community Club Development Project investment of £264, 000 for a pool refurbishment, the Minister was able to view the benefits being delivered to the community, the school and the coach education systems. 

During the visit guests and young people were able to deliberate how the planned activities could reflect the creativeness of the local community. Jim Knight responded to Benfield’s Sports Leaders and athletes aspirations for the forthcoming Olympics, as well as having the opportunity to watch a range of sport activities and meet many young athletes.

Chris Holmes is Britain’s most successful Paralympic swimmer and was a member of the GB swimming team for 16 years. He competed at four Paralympic Games, two World and seven European Championships and has won nine gold medals, including six at a single games. He was awarded an MBE in 1992 for his services to sport and was appointed to the UK Sport board in September 2005.