Two networks that have been leading the way in the Rochford District for sport and physical activity have made the decision to merge.

activerochford, the Community Activity Network for the Rochford District, and Rochford District Sports Council will now both come under the activerochford banner. They will work towards the achievement of a coordinated approach in order to create, develop and promote opportunities for local people to take part in sport and physical activity in the Rochford District.

activerochford Chair Dave Record said: “I feel that bringing the two bodies together gives us greater opportunities to support Sport and Recreation within Rochford District, both for individuals and for clubs.”

Outgoing Sports Council Chair and new Grants Sub Group lead Bruce Smart added: “The merger has given an opportunity to review the grant procedure and bring the awards more in line with the expenditure sports people face in the pursuit of excellence.”

Rochford District Sports Awards 2009 sponsored by Virgin Active activerochford will also be organising this year’s Rochford District Sports Awards, sponsored by Virgin Active.

The event will take place at The Freight House, Rochford on 22 October and nomination forms will be available at http://www.rochford.gov.uk/sportsawards

Once again Southend United FC and Southend United Community & Educational Trust, Waters & Stanton PLC, Squires Café Bars and Connaught Environmental Ltd will be sponsoring categories and they will be joined this year by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.

For more information contact Mark Aldous on 01702 318121 or mark.aldous@rochford.gov.uk