Residents of Kingston can now try outdoor table tennis thanks to a funding grant given to Dickerage Sports and Community Centre and Park from national charity Fields In Trust.

The existing indoor tennis facilities were suffering from table tennis traffic jams, so after consultation with young people and residents the Centre applied to Fields in Trust's London Legacy Fund. With budding young stars of the future already taking part the new facilities will inspire even more people to get active.

"All the staff at Dickerage Sports and Community Centre and Park think this is a great opportunity for all age groups to participate in the great outdoor sport of table tennis! We would like to thank everyone involved in Fields in Trust and the London Marathon Charitable Trust who made this possible" Steve Hunt, Centre Manager.

Thanks to the support of the London Marathon Charitable Trust and the Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, Fields in Trust are working to protect and improve sites across London with a £1million legacy fund. So far £434,000 has been allocated to projects across the capital, ranging from sports pitch improvements, children's playgrounds and activity programmes. London landowners are encouraged to put their outdoor recreational spaces forward for permanent protection through the Challenge to unlock access to their exclusive legacy fund.

Through the QEII Fields Challenge Dickerage Sports Centre and Park owned by the Royal Borough of Kingston is now safeguarded for future generations to enjoy.

“I am delighted to see the first completed project as a result of our partnership with the London Marathon Charitable Trust. Fields in Trust are really pleased to be working with the team at Dickerage Sports Centre and Park to engage more young people in a range of outdoor activities and help to create a grassroots community sport legacy,” Helen Griffiths, CEO Fields in Trust.

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• For further information please contact: Kathryn Cook, Communications Manager on 07931392176 0207 427 2117 kathryn.cook@fieldsintrust.org
• Twitter: @fieldsintrust
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/QE2Fields
Notes to editors:
• Further details on Fields in Trust at: www.fieldsintrust.org
• 1580 sites have been nominated for protection through the Challenge across the UK; 70 across London.
• More information on the London Legacy Fund at: http://www.fieldsintrust.org/londonlegacy.aspx
• 44 grants have been awarded £434,000 so far across London
• The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to protect outdoor recreational spaces by the end of 2012 to build a legacy from the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games.
• The Duke of Cambridge is Patron of the Challenge.
• The Challenge builds on the work that Fields in Trust has done so far. Established in 1925 as the National Playing Fields Association, Fields in Trust works to improve the protection, provision and quality of outdoor recreational spaces for all communities in the UK.

Fields in Trust Welcomes New Guidance

The Department for Education published new Guidance last week to support the School Premises Regulations – effective from 1^st November - which shows a positive improvement on the draft in relation to school playing fields.

The needs of other local schools once again need to be considered when any disposals of school playing fields are reviewed by the School Playing Fields Advisory Panel and the need to prioritise reinvestment of capital receipts into sport has been reinstated.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said: 'We're very pleased to see these two key points reinstated in the new Guidance. Fields in Trust also lobbied for an interpretation of the subjective 'suitable outdoor space' which is now spelt out with more clarity in relation to sufficiency, quality and accessibility. This is a marked improvement and one that we welcome.'

£3,000 boost to local village sports dream

There's cause for celebratory fireworks in Elkesley this November thanks to national charity Fields in Trust (FiT). Fields in Trust have awarded a grant of £3,000 to the Elkesley Queen Elizabeth II Sports Field, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. Elkesley Parish Council will put the money towards a new multi-use games area, adding to funds raised so far by the Playground committee and villagers.

Before the sports field facilities were developed, village children had to travel seven miles to be able to play sport. Reliant on an infrequent bus service, the villagers were desperate to develop their own site to promote health and fitness in the local children.

The Sports Field was eligible for the QEII Fields County funding as owners, Elkesley Parish Council, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the Playing Fields will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“We're delighted to have received this funding from Fields in Trust for the Field. It takes us one step closer to our vision of a high quality sports facility in the village itself. With Fields in Trust's support we have been able to make sure not only that the Sports Field will always be there but it will be in better shape for future generations to enjoy,” Mr Oldbury, Parish Chairman.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Parish Council is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their locally protected QEII Field. By safeguarding and improving this area, the Trust has shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

De Havilland Grange in Hertfordshire will be celebrating this November thanks to Fields in Trust. They have awarded a grant of £2,000 to De Havilland Grange through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. Hatfield Town Council will use the money to put Diamond Jubilee benches and litter bins in place on the Grange. This will ensure the community have somewhere to rest and relax on the site – and enjoy a litter-free view!

De Havilland Grange was eligible for this funding because the owners, the town council, had nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. The Challenge is working with landowners to build a national grassroots legacy from the Olympics by ensuring sites such as the Grange are safeguarded forever. Not only have the Council leveraged funding to keep their green space looking its best, but they have also made sure that the local residents will always have somewhere to play and relax in the fresh air.

With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is a living legacy programme to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Protecting outdoor recreational spaces across the UK, the Challenge gives local communities the chance to engage with these two historic events. Landowners across the country are encouraged to play their part in preserving outdoor space by Fields in Trust.

“We're delighted to be awarded this money by Fields in Trust as part of their marking of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic and Paralympic Games. It will help us make the park a more accessible and enjoyable place for the local community, and keep the park a valuable asset to the area for many years to come. We would encourage other Fields in Trust owners to take advantage of this pot of funding Fields in Trust are offering,” comments Hatfield Town Council.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for our sporting future as well as the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that Hatfield Town Council is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their park. By safeguarding this area, the Council has shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future. I encourage other councils to watch for further rounds of Fields in Trust County Funding in 2012 to help make their Queen Elizabeth II Field the best they can be,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

Local cricket pavilion rises from the flames thanks to Fields in Trust funding

There's real cause for celebratory fireworks this November in Southend, Reading. National charity Fields in Trust have awarded a grant of £3000 to Bradfield Playing Fields, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. The Bradfield Playing Fields will put the funds towards the continuing rebuild of the cricket club pavilion and exterior landscaping, following an arson attack last year.

The Playing Fields were eligible for this funding as its owners nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the Playing Fields will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“We're delighted that we have been able to help the local community recover from the pointless act of vandalism which destroyed their original pavilion. With QEII Fields funding, the residents can look forward to having an even better site to enjoy, now and forever. By safeguarding and improving this area, they have shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

£1,500 grant to keep Nottinghamshire Rec Ground in tip top condition

There's cause for celebratory fireworks in Nottinghamshire thanks to national charity Fields in Trust. They have awarded a grant of £1,500 to Shilo Recreation Ground in Awsworth, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. Awsworth Parish Council will use the money to buy much needed mowing equipment to keep the Rec Ground in good condition.

Shilo Rec Ground was eligible for this funding as owners, Awsworth Parish, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the Rec Ground will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Parish Council is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their Rec Ground. By safeguarding this area, the Council has shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

Grant awarded to Streatley Meadows

National charity Fields in Trust awarded a grant of £1,500 to Streatley Meadows, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. The Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust will use the money to build a pathway through the wooded section of the Meadows. This isn't the first time the Meadows have been successful in applying for funds through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge: they have previously beenfunded for improvements to the fencing and signage in the newly-protected QEII Field.

Streatley Meadows was eligible for this funding as owners, the Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the meadows will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“We're delighted to have received this funding from Fields in Trust for Streatley Meadows. We are using it to secure a pathway through the woods so that people can easily access more of the site and fully enjoy its delights! With Fields in Trust's support we have been able to make sure not only that the Meadows will always be there for the villagers to enjoy but that public access through the wooded portion is done in a balanced way to ensure that natural habitats are protected as well.” Nikki Swan, Chairman, Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their locally protected QEII Field. By safeguarding this area, the Trust has shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

It's playtime in Lancaster thanks to national charity Fields in Trust. They have awarded a grant of £4,000 to Fairfield Green, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. The Fairfield Association will use the money to rejuvenate a children's play area in the Park. The play area is a popular feature with locals and the Fields in Trust funding has turned a patchy play space into one that will let families socialise and enjoy the fresh air safely.

Fairfield was eligible for this funding as owners, Lancaster City Council, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the park will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“We are delighted to have received this funding from Fields in Trust for Fairfield Green. It provides a hefty contribution to the cost of resurfacing the play area. The Fairfield Association leases the play area from the City Council and maintains it using a combination of hands on repairs, local fundraising and grants from other charities. Our play area is immensely popular and we are very proud of the contribution it makes to the local community.
The positive side of looking after the local play area is seeing how much children enjoy the equipment we have provided. However, all this come with a price tag and although we can patch the area ourselves, resurfacing the whole area is a professional job and the cost is daunting. With Fields in Trust's support we have been able to ensure that Fairfield will always be there for everyone to enjoy and in better shape for the future.” Andrew Brennand, Chair, The Fairfield Association.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Fairfield Association has built on the opportunity presented by the QEII Fields Challenge to improve their site, protected by Lancaster Council through the Challenge. The improvements they have been able to carry out through their successful grant fund application will, I'm sure, be greatly appreciated by the Lancaster residents,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

Fields in Trust funding provides welcome boost to Torpoint site of natural beauty

There's real cause for celebratory fireworks in Torpoint this November thanks to national charity Fields in Trust. They have awarded a grant of £4,000 to Thanckes Park, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. The Friends of Thanckes Park will use the money to enhance the Park, building on the regeneration of this area of natural beauty.

Thanckes Park was eligible for this funding as the owners, Cornwall Council, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the Playing Fields will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Parish Council is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their locally protected QEII Field. By safeguarding and improving this area, the Trust has shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

There's cause for celebratory fireworks in Devon this November thanks to national charity Fields in Trust. Fields in Trust have awarded a grant of £1,900 to the Dalwood Jubilee Field. The Dalwood Recreation Trust will use the money to renovate a building on site to use as a sports pavilion.

The Jubilee Field was eligible for this funding as owners, the Dalwood Recreation Trust, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the Jubilee Field will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“We're delighted to have received this funding from Fields in Trust for the Jubilee Field. With Fields in Trust's support we have been able to make sure the Jubilee Field will always be there and are in better shape for the future. We have agreed to purchase the playing field and the building for use as a sports pavilion. The sale documents with Devon County Council should be completed by the end of the year,” said the Dalwood Recreation Trust.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Trust is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their locally protected QEII Field. By safeguarding and improving this area, the Trust has shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

There's real cause for fireworks in Corse and Staunton this November. National charity Fields in Trust have awarded a grant of £900 to the local Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. The Corse and Staunton Playing Fields Charity will use the money to repair to the entrance to the Pavilion to prevent future flooding.

The Playing Fields were eligible for this funding as owners, the Corse and Staunton Playing Fields Charity, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the Playing Fields will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“We're delighted to have received this funding from Fields in Trust for the Playing Fields. It will enable us to upgrade the entrance to the Fields so that it provides a suitable entry to such a great site. With Fields in Trust's support we have been able to make sure the Playing fields will always be there and are in better shape for the future.” Graham Bruce, Honorary Chairman.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Charity is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their locally protected QEII Field. By safeguarding and improving this area, they have shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

HRH The Duchess of Cambridge visited Elswick Park, a newly protected Queen Elizabeth II Field, in Newcastle today as part of a tour of the North East. During the event HRH The Duchess of Cambridge watched local school children participating in an outdoor lesson, met with volunteers from the community garden and unveiled a plaque on behalf of HRH The Duke of Cambridge, Patron of The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

Operated by national charity Fields in Trust and supported its principal partner Asda, Fields in Trust's initiative The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to permanently protect 2,012 outdoor recreational spaces across the UK as a permanent legacy to the landmark occasion of the Diamond Jubilee. To date over 1,450 spaces have been nominated to become Queen Elizabeth II Fields including parks, playgrounds, sports pitches, bicycle trails, nature reserves and flower meadows.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust says: “Today's event has been a wonderful way to illustrate how the impact of outdoor space extends far beyond sport and play – particularly in urban areas such as Newcastle. We were delighted to welcome HRH The Duchess of Cambridge to Elswick Park and show her some of the fantastic ways this site is used by the local community to promote positive outdoor activities. Thanks to the generous support of Asda and the enthusiasm of hundreds of councils The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge will enable communities to benefit from these sites for generations to come.'

Andy Clarke, Chief Executive of Asda says: “Green spaces like these provide free, safe places for our customers and colleagues to participate in a range of outdoor activities. The local community's use of Elswick Park is really inspiring and shows how together we can make a real difference to people's lives beyond traditional sport and play."

School children from Canning Street, Hawthorn and St. Michael's R.C. primary schools were all thrilled to meet HRH The Duchess of Cambridge along with volunteers from West End Women and Girls Centre who run the onsite community garden.

Ends


Notes to editors:

Fields in Trust is the operating name of the National Playing Fields Association

Fields in Trust is a national charity founded in 1925 to improve the protection, provision and quality of outdoor recreational spaces for all communities in the UK

HM The Queen has been Patron of Fields in Trust for 60 years, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh has been President for 64 years and HRH The Duke of Cambridge is Patron of The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge currently has 1300 nominated sites and will continue to operate for the duration of 2012.

Asda and The Asda Foundation are the principal partners of the Challenge

For more information on Fields in Trust please see
www.fieldsintrust.org or for The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge please see www.qe2fields.com

For further information please contact:

Fields in Trust: Helen Griffiths helen.griffiths@fieldsintrust.org / 07946 188 371

Broadgate Mainland: Mark Knight mknight@broadgatemainland.com /07584 170 109

Roisin Hynes rhynes@broadgatemainland.com

Collingham Play Park are celebrating this November thanks to national charity Fields in Trust (FiT). Fields in Trust have awarded a grant of £2,500 to Collingham Play Park, through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields County Funds. Collingham Parish Council will use the funding to provide seating in the Park.

Collingham Play Park was eligible for this funding as owners, Collingham Parish Council, nominated it for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means the park will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to create a living legacy to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by protecting open play spaces across the UK. The programme gives communities the chance to engage with and celebrate these two historic events in their local area and to benefit from them for years to come.

“We're delighted to have received this funding from Fields in Trust for the Park. It will be used to improve the seating provision in Collingham Play Park, widening everyone's enjoyment of the site. With Fields in Trust's support we have been able to make sure it's in better shape for the future and great fun for all the community to use.” Chris Allen, Parish Councillor.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that the Parish Council is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their locally protected QEII Field. By safeguarding and improving this area, the Trust has shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

Fields in Trust is delighted to announce that TRHs The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit Elswick Park in Newcastle on 10th October as part of their series of engagements in Tyne and Wear.
Elswick Park is one of 11 sites nominated by Newcastle City Council to be protected as part of Fields in Trust's Diamond Jubilee legacy initiative The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge of which The Duke of Cambridge is Patron.

During the visit The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will see some of the great opportunities outdoor spaces can offer beyond traditional sport and play.

Local school children will be using Elswick Park as an outdoor classroom during the visit and volunteers from the West End Women and Girls Centre will be harvesting and planting produce in the community garden.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said 'We are very excited to be welcoming The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to a Queen Elizabeth II Field in the North of England and are particularly pleased that the Elswick Park visit will give us a chance to show how urban parks and playgrounds can play a real role in ensuring the local community has an opportunity to connect with nature and the environment.'

Funding up for grabs to make parks and playgrounds more accessible

Today, to coincide with the opening ceremony of the 2012 Paralympic Games, Fields in Trust opens its new Queen Elizabeth II Fields Inclusion Fund. Landowners across the country have six weeks to get their applications in to the charity for funding to make their outdoor spaces inclusive.

This year's Paralympic Games is set to be the busiest and most successful to date with record ticket sales and so as the nation waits to see incredible sporting feats from the world's Paralympians, Fields in Trust are helping landowners to build a strong legacy of outdoor recreational spaces that are accessible to all, giving any future Paralympians somewhere to discover and hone their talent. Sites protected through the QEII Fields Challenge can apply for the Inclusion Fund – including Stoke Mandeville's Community Centre Playing Field which is less than 5 minutes away from the birthplace of the modern Paralympics.

Landowners across the country are encouraged to take this chance to make their parks and playgrounds accessible and future proof. With endorsement from Scope, the English Federation of Disability Sport and Paralympic hopeful Richard Chiassaro, the Inclusion Fund gives landowners a key opportunity to ensure that their sites offer inclusive opportunities to as wide a range of their local community as possible and will remain valuable assets to the community for many years to come.

Led by the Duke of Cambridge, Fields in Trust's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to protect 2,012 open spaces as a tangible legacy for HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Challenge provides communities across the country with a fantastic way to engage with these historic events at a local level.

Alison Moore Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said: “The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Inclusion Fund means that QEII Fields can be made as accessible as possible for all children to play on and enjoy. The fund can be used to ensure that the tangible legacy of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge fully realises its potential to enrich the lives of all. It is also a central facet to ensuring society has a strong legacy from the Paralympics as well as from the Olympics”.

'Play and activity are the foundation stones on which participation in sport in later life are built. It is vital that disabled children have access to these opportunities and The QEII Fields Inclusion Fund will give grants to ensure these vital first steps are available to all members of a community, ' said Barry Horne Chief Executive of English Federation of Disability Sport.

'The QEII Fields Inclusion Fund aims to enable our local green open spaces to become more accessible for all members of the community. We welcome this initiative from Fields in Trust to provide access to all for fun and activity in the fresh air", said Tony Rucinski, Director of Knowledge and Learning, Scope.

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For further information please contact:
Kathryn Cook at Fields in Trust on 07931 392 176; 0207 427 2117; kathryn.cook@fieldsintrust.org

Further information:
www.qe2fields.com/inclusionfund.aspx
Richard Chiassaro is ranked 1st in the UK over 100m and 200m and 2nd over 400m.

Team GB of the future needs the fields

Yes, funding is essential but don't forget about the fields themselves

The Olympics have sparked a frenzied focus on the UK's sporting legacy. On 5 August Lord Moynihan called for greater funding into sports in the UK. The national governing bodies of sport are concerned about future funding cuts following the 2012 Games.

Whilst funding is undoubtedly important in creating and sustaining the sporting stars of the future, it is vital that other elements which nurture sporting ability are not overlooked. A fundamental one is the provision of “where”, the space for people to discover and hone their talent.

Fields in Trust's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge programme, supported by Asda plc and the Asda Foundation, addresses this. The Challenge works with local landowners to protect their outdoor recreational spaces – 2,012 of them being the target, by the end of 2012.

“The call for greater sports funding will add pressure to the public purse at a time of cuts and closures. The beauty of the QEII Fields Challenge is that it is a sustainable, low-cost way of ensuring a grassroots sports legacy, one that is tangible and lasts for our children and grandchildren. Protecting the local sports pitches and other outdoor recreational space gives sports clubs and individuals the space to develop sporting talent. The range of sites that can be protected through the Challenge ensures that this effect plays out across a variety of sports. It is crucial that we take this moment to safeguard our sporting legacy for the future. Let's not look to criticise in advance, let's look to the future and act now to provide our children with somewhere to nurture the Olympic dreams sparked off by these wonderful 2012 Games",

Alison Moore-Gwyn, CEO of Fields in Trust

Charity warns of looming threat from academies to sporting future

It is a cause for concern when school playing fields – and other outdoor recreational spaces –are sold off for a quick financial fix that then jeopardises Britain's longer-term sporting success and the health and enjoyment of people of all ages.

But behind these figures lies a worrying, greater, threat. The figures obtained that reveal the number of school playing fields where permission has been given for disposal by the Secretary of State for Education do at least give some certainty (although it should be added that some of the permissions given may be for improvements to sports provision).
Academies, and the new Free Schools, on the other hand, have been exempted from the Department for Education's regulations that govern other mainstream schools' freedom to sell off their playing fields: there could, therefore, be an unknown number of other sports pitches that have been lost without our knowing.

The problem is compounded because not only have many new academies been created, but also because the number is growing, with the addition of established schools which are accorded Academy status. This could have serious implications for our sporting legacy: without making all schools subject to the regulations, will the people of Great Britain be able to look back in another 100 years and enjoy the same success in the Olympic Games that we are currently witnessing? It looks unlikely as things stand – sportsmen young and older can do great things, but only if they have somewhere on which to discover and develop their potential.

On Tuesday 7 August 2012, the Guardian featured a story on the sale of school playing fields: http://bit.ly/QGCiHg

Our full comment on this issue is as follows:

It's not yet possible to make any soundly based conclusions comparing the rates of disposals between the Coalition Government and the previous Labour Government. However, we are aware that legislation and regulatory guidance relating to the protection of school playing fields are about to change. In addition more and more schools are becoming academies, which are not subject to the same protection and scrutiny under the 1998 legislation protecting these facilities.There is therefore a danger that disposal of school playing fields will re-emerge as an increasing problem, particularly given the general economic situation we all face. It is key that we endeavour to protect all outdoor recreational facilities, and are aware of the threats to them, particularly now as the whole country enjoys our Olympic sporting success.

Newspapers last night awarded TFL gold for their efforts to make travel seamless during the Olympics, but when it comes to grassroots legacy the London borough of Islington romps home with the top medal. Islington Borough Council have engaged with the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, run by Fields in Trust, which safeguards outdoor recreational spaces in perpetuity to ensure that communities will always have places for sport and play to mark the great events of 2012.

Islington Council have so far nominated 14 sites for protection under the Challenge despite the area being one of the most densely populated parts of the country. That's 25% of the total number of sites that all London Boroughs have nominated and stands in stark contrast to 14 boroughs whose councils have not yet protected any spaces. With the Home Games hoping to see the success of home-grown competitors such as Christine Ohuruogu, Philips Idowu and Zoe Smith, the need to protect space for the Olympians of the future to flourish in London is underlined. Yet some councils such as Kensington and Chelsea whose park managers think that their parks do “not require the additional levels of protection that would come from inclusion in the Challenge",and Bexley, in particular, have shown no interest in creating a grassroots legacy through the programme.

Parks, playing fields and playgrounds continue to be threatened by development and, without these spaces, participation levels in all kinds of physical recreation would be severely reduced. Applications to protect sites under the Challenge can be made until the end of December, 2012.

The Duke of Cambridge is Patron of the Challenge, and supports the vital role green spaces play: 'As we cheer on athletes at the Olympic Games, we should remember how so many of them started their career on local green spaces.'

'Fields in Trust's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is helping to deliver the most fantastic legacy from the Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. I encourage all the Boroughs to get involved with the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge and take advantage of this chance to make our precious outdoor spaces even better,' Boris Johnson, Mayor of London.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said 'I'm delighted by the enthusiasm with which Islington Borough Council has embraced the Challenge. They really are setting the standard for ensuring a legacy from the Games in their Borough and I hope the rest of London will follow suit. It is particularly important in urban areas, with the pressure of housing and population, to safeguard access to local facilities. Without this we face the possibility of a decline in the diversity of home grown athletes and sports people.'

'It is a great idea to protect our open spaces in perpetuity, I think the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is a wonderful initiative; councils are under tremendous pressure to build houses, particularly here in Islington where we have a very high waiting list for social housing and yet very little land. So it is especially important that we keep our green spaces in perpetuity and I hope a lot more green space is protected in this way,' Janet Burgess, Councillor and Executive for Health & Wellbeing, Islington Council.

Delivery of this wide ranging legacy programme was made possible by the support of Asda and the Asda Foundation. Paul Kelly, External Affairs Director at Asda said 'Asda shares Fields in Trust's commitment to ensuring 2012 brings lasting benefit to communities across the UK and so we are proud to have worked in partnership to deliver a programme that will give opportunities for participation in sports and activities well beyond the Olympic Games'.

=ENDS=

For further information please contact:
Helen Griffiths, Director of Communications at Fields in Trust on 07946 188 371, 0207 427 2112 helen.griffiths@fieldsintrust.org or Kathryn Cook, Communications Manager on 07931 392 176; 0207 427 2117; kathryn.cook@fieldsintrust.org

Notes to editors:
www.qe2fields.com
www.fieldsintrust.org
On Twitter @fieldsintrust

LONDON BOROUGH LOCAL AUTHORITY NOMINATIONS LONDON BOROUGH LOCAL AUTHORITY NOMINATIONS
Islington 14 Southwark 1
Enfield 6 Tower Hamlets 1
Ealing 5 Barnet 0
Haringey 4 Hounslow 0
Bromley 3 Lambeth 0
Greenwich 3 Lewisham 0
Wandsworth 2 Bexley 0
Brent 2 Hackney 0
City of London 2 Hammersmith and Fulham 0
Havering 2 Harrow 0
Kingston Upon Thames 2 Hillingdon 0
Sutton 2 Kensington and Chelsea 0
Croydon 1 Merton 0
Barking and Dagenham 1 Newham 0
Camden 1 Waltham Forest 0
Redbridge 1 Westminster 0
Richmond Upon Thames 1

• There is also special funding available to QEII sites across London – the London Legacy fund. More information can be found at: http://www.qe2fields.com/londonlegacy.aspx

• The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to protect 2,012 outdoor recreational spaces by the end of 2012 to build a legacy from the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games.

We've pulled together the statistics on how landowners in regions and counties across the UK compare with each other in creating a grassroots sporting legacy for future generations to benefit from.

Click on a link to read the press release for that area.

East

West Midlands

East Midlands

North East

North West

South West

South East

Greater London

Wales

Scotland

Seven years after the announcement of London as the successful host city the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games is now just four days away and will be followed by a spectacle of sport for everyone to enjoy. However the question remains about how this fantastic opportunity is realised as a legacy that will benefit the whole country for generations to come.

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, run by national charity Fields in Trust, aims to safeguard outdoor recreational spaces in perpetuity to ensure that communities will always have access to places for sport and play to mark the great events of 2012. Parks, playing fields and playgrounds continue to be threatened by development and, without these spaces, participation levels in all kinds of physical recreation would be severely reduced.

The Duke of Cambridge is Patron of the Challenge and is committed to the importance of outdoor spaces: 'We take it for granted that children like to run and to play games and most people agree that leaving children to be cooped up inside all day is bad for them. If we are serious about that, then we must be serious about preserving the fields and parks on which children can play. If parks and fields continue to disappear at the rate at which they have done for the past few decades, many communities will have nowhere for their young people to enjoy. Some of my happiest memories as a child were those times I spent outside playing games, and I think that is true for most people'.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said 'Parks and playing fields are often the place where are elite sports people first identify their talent. As well as ensuring the general health and well-being of the nation by giving everyone the chance to participate in healthy outdoor activities, these spaces are also the first stepping stone towards sporting success. Without access to local facilities we face the possibility of a decline in the diversity of home grown athletes and sports people.'

This is echoed by The Duke of Cambridge who is also an Ambassador to the London 2012 Games 'As we cheer on athletes at the Olympic Games, we should remember how so many of them started their career on local green spaces.'

Delivery of this wide ranging legacy programme was made possible by the support of Asda and the Asda Foundation. Paul Kelly, External Affairs Director at Asda said 'Asda shares Fields in Trust's commitment to ensuring 2012 brings lasting benefit to communities across the UK and so we are proud to have worked in partnership to deliver a programme that will give opportunities for participation in sports and activities well beyond the Olympic Games'.

=ENDS=

For further information please contact:

Helen Griffiths, Director of Communications at Fields in Trust on 07946 188 371, 0207 427 2112 helen.griffiths@fieldsintrust.org or Kathryn Cook, Communications Manager on 07931 392 176; 0207 427 2117; kathryn.cook@fieldsintrust.org

Today marks 50 days until the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games and to celebrate Fields in Trust is pleased to announce a new Queen Elizabeth II Fields Inclusion Fund.

A total of £80,000 is exclusively available for applications from outdoor recreational sites protected under the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. The fund will open for applications on 29 August, to coincide with the start of the 2012 Paralympic Games.

Landowners across the country are encouraged to take this chance to make their parks and playgrounds accessible and future proof. Led by the Duke of Cambridge, Fields in Trust's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to protect 2,012 open spaces as a tangible legacy for HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Challenge provides communities across the country with a fantastic way to engage with these historic events at a local level. Applying to the inclusion fund will ensure that sites appeal to as wide a range of their local community as possible and will remain valuable assets to the community for many years to come.

Alison Moore Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said: “The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Inclusion Fund means that QEII Fields can be made as accessible as possible for all children to play on and enjoy. The fund can be used to ensure that the tangible legacy of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge fully realises its potential to enrich the lives of all.'

'Play and activity are the foundation stones on which participation in sport in later life are built. It is vital that disabled children have access to these opportunities and The QEII Fields Inclusion Fund will give grants to ensure these vital first steps are available to all members of a community ' said Barry Horne Chief Executive of English Federation of Disability Sport.

'The QEII Fields Inclusion Fund aims to enable our local green open spaces to become more accessible for all members of the community. We welcome this initiative from Fields in Trust to provide access to all for fun and activity in the fresh air.' Tony Rucinski, Director of Knowledge and Learning, Scope

Great news today for QE Fields in Scotland who can now apply to for two different strands of funding!

The Scotland QE Fields Fund offers capital grants of between £5,000 and £10,000 to any site protected by the Challenge. All kinds of projects can be funded including play equipment, outdoor gym facilities, sensory gardens, teen shelters and children's allotments. To find out more and to apply visit Scotland QE Fields Fund.

We're also delighted to announce a new partnership with sportscotland's Sports Facilities Fund which will give priority to any funding application relating to a QE Field. Two schemes are in operation for small projects under £100,000 and larger developments over £100,000. Find out more at Sport Scotland.

These funding programmes will bring great additional benefit to communities with QE Fields.

http://www.thisislincolnshire.co.uk/staff-Asda-Boston-meet-Prince-William/story-16419192-detail/story.html

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http://www.thewestonmercury.co.uk/news/park_to_be_protected_1_1414140

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Stow-roots-Jubilee-wood/story-16419603-detail/story.html

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/351802/20120613/diamond-jubilee-prince-william-kate-middleton-accompany.htm

On June 13^th, HM The Queen and TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Vernon Park in Nottingham. They were celebrating the Diamond Jubilee, with Her Majesty unveiling a QEII Fields Challenge plaque for the newly protected park.

The day also gave The Duke the opportunity to dedicate the Challenge to Her Majesty as a tribute to the Diamond Jubilee:

"Through my Patronage of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields [I can] pay tribute to The Queen on her Diamond Jubilee...Thank you so much Your Majesty and The Duke of Edinburgh for everything you have done throughout your reign to protect these vital outdoor places for the nation"

After The Duke of Cambridge gave the lovely speech,which, according to the BBC "brought an ecstatic response from the crowds". HM The Queen unveiled the plaque that will remain on the Vernon Park Site. There were several schools from Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire participating in activities to give the Royal Party a flavour of Have a Field Days.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge even had a go at throwing a foam javelin as they participated in one of the Field Day events. Everyone who attended the event at Nottingham seemed to have a wonderful time and the festivities continued throughout the entire day.

Twitter came alive with excited tweets from those thronging onto the field and those lucky enough to meet the Royals or take part in the day:

'Lovely meeting William and Kate today - thanks to @FieldsInTrust pic.twitter.com/aYoplFpd'

'Fantastic day at Vernon Park for Chesterfield Schools with @FieldsInTrust @BritishMonarchychesterfieldssp.co.uk/news/12638/fie….'

Overall it was a fantastic day that was devoted to thanking HM The Queen for her duties over the past sixty years and was an event that many will remember for a lifetime.

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www.instyle.co.uk/news/back-in-blue-kate-middleton-works-missoni-for-the-jubilee-tour-13-06-12

http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2012-06-13/royals-on-way-to-burghley-house/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2158629/Kate-Middleton-recycles-ANOTHER-outfit-Duchess-Cambridge-steps-Missoni-coat-dress-again.html

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http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/National-News/Jubilee-crowds-greet-royal-party-693062.xnf?BodyFormat=2

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/feedarticle/10286863

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This is the text of the speech that The Duke of Cambridge gave during the Diamond Jubilee tour, at the Vernon Park visit by Her Majesty, with The Duchess of Cambridge:

Your Majesty, Ladies and Gentleman,‪

I do feel something of an interloper here today. After all, The Queen has been Patron of Fields in Trust - formerly The National Playing Fields Association - for all 60 years of her reign. My grandfather, The Duke of Edinburgh, who very sadly cannot be here today, has been President for 64 years. ‪

This marvellous charity provides people of all ages, up and down the country, with the space to play sport, keep fit and generally get outside and enjoy themselves in the fresh air. Fields in Trust, I know, is very dear to my grandparents' hearts, as it is to mine.‪

This makes it even more satisfying to be here at Vernon Park to celebrate, through The Queen Elizabeth II Fields initiative, the great work this charity does, and has done over the past 87 years since its foundation, in protecting the Nations' playing fields.‪

The occasion presents the perfect opportunity for me, through my Patronage of The Queen Elizabeth II Fields, to pay tribute to The Queen on her Diamond Jubilee.

On behalf of Fields in Trust, Your Majesty, thank you for all that you and The Duke of Edinburgh have done throughout your reign to protect these vital outdoor places for the Nation. How grateful we all are to you for the extraordinary devotion and love you have shown to the people of this country and the Commonwealth.‪

On behalf of all of us enjoying ourselves here today, I congratulate the organisers of this event - but most particularly, everyone at Fields in Trust who works so tirelessly to ensure that wonderful places like Vernon Park are protected for future generations to enjoy.

Thank you very much indeed, and have a great afternoon. It just remains for me to ask Your Majesty to open Vernon Park as the latest Queen Elizabeth II Field.

http://www.examiner.com/article/duke-and-duchess-of-cambridge-join-queen-for-jubilee-visit

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/view/256650/Kate-Middleton-is-a-rocket-ma-am/

http://www.people.com/people/package/article/0,,20395222_20603539,00.html

http://www.popsugar.com/Kate-Middleton-Pictures-Jubilee-Stop-Missoni-23539243

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/queen-elizabeth-II/9328751/Duchess-of-Cambridge-sings-national-anthem-for-the-Queen.html

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/the_queens_diamond_jubilee/9329936/Duke-and-Duchess-of-Cambridge-join-Queen-as-Jubilee-tour-moves-to-Nottingham.html

http://www.bournelocal.co.uk/news/regional-news/huge-crowds-as-duke-pays-tribute-1-3946528

http://www.xperedon.com/news_1391

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/queen-east-midlands-jubilee-032720987.html

http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/QUEEN-S-VISIT-Future-Nottingham-s-Vernon-Park/story-16364892-detail/story.html

http://www.metro.co.uk/news/902048-thousands-wait-for-hours-to-see-queen-in-nottingham

http://entertainment.stv.tv/royal-wedding/308505-kate-middleton-seems-impressed-with-prince-williams-javelin-skills/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2158757/The-Queen-Kate-Middleton-pictured-laughing-35-000-people-gather-patriotic-show.html

http://www.impactnottingham.com/2012/06/the-queen-comes-to-nottingham/

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-31749_162-57452366-10391698/kate-joins-queen-elizabeth-ii-and-prince-william-for-diamond-jubilee-visit/

http://www.itv.com/news/central/2012-06-13/the-day-the-queen-william-and-kate-visited-the-midlands/

http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2012/06/13/kate-duchess-of-cambridge-blue-queen-diamond-jubilee_n_1592628.html

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2158757/The-Queen-Kate-Middleton-pictured-laughing-35-000-people-gather-patriotic-show.html

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/queen-elizabeth-II/9329020/Prince-William-pays-tribute-to-the-Queen-following-Diamond-Jubilee.html

http://web.orange.co.uk/article/news/queen_in_east_midlands_for_jubilee

http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2012-06-13/william-pays-tribute-to-queen-in-speech/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18425321

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http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2012-06-13/royals-on-way-to-burghley-house/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2158629/Kate-Middleton-recycles-ANOTHER-outfit-Duchess-Cambridge-steps-Missoni-coat-dress-again.html

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http://www.popsugar.com.au/Kate-Middleton-Prince-William-Queen-Visit-Nottingham-Diamond-Jubilee-23545357

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http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-18411262

Fields in Trust response to the brief letter published in The Guardian Weds 6 June, from Open Spaces Society.

Kate Ashbrook's response to Tuesday's article (Royal boroughs snub plan to protect 2,012 open spaces, 5 June) suggests that town and village green legislation is superior to other forms of protecting recreational land such as the consensual arrangements and charity registrations used by Fields in Trust.
We strongly believe that there is a whole spectrum of ways to ensure that our outdoor spaces are safeguarded for the future including land law, restrictive covenants, the planning system, deeds of dedication and, of course, town and village green legislation.
Fields in Trust advocate methods of safeguarding that allow improvements of recreational facilities such as playgrounds and pitches to be developed on space which, in turn, increase participation in sport and play. Green registrations frequently block such improvements.
All methods of land protection have their own merits depending on the case in question and, as the 1300 sites that have signed up to Queen Elizabeth II Fields evidence, Fields in Trust protection is often deemed the most suitable.

Alison Moore-Gwyn
Chief Executive, Fields in Trust

"The nationwide Diamond Jubilee celebrations this weekend promise to be truly spectacular. This milestone is particularly special for Fields in Trust as we are honoured also to be celebrating HM The Queen's 60 years as our Patron.

As a tribute to this our programme The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, led by The Duke of Cambridge, aims to have safeguarded 2,012 outdoor recreational spaces as legacy of these great events. Communities across the UK will be celebrating their Queen Elizabeth II Fields this weekend with dedication ceremonies and Have a Field Day parties.
We'd like to thank HM The Queen along with our President HRH The Duke of Edinburgh for their long-standing support of Fields in Trust and HRH The Duke of Cambridge for helping to make The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge such as success.
Fittingly we are just over half way towards our target of 2,012 Queen Elizabeth II Fields at this milestone. We'd also like to thank all of the Local Authorities, Town and Parish Councils and other landowners who have worked in partnership with us and we encourage others to get involved during this great year.
Without the generosity of our partners Asda and the support of Freshfields, The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry and many others we would not have been able to ensure that future generations will always have somewhere to go and something to do. "


Alison Moore-Gwyn
Chief Executive

GSK has today entered a partnership with Fields in Trust (FIT) to secure the future of its Swyncombe Avenue Playing Fields, where hundreds of local people already enjoy sport, by placing them into trust in perpetuity.

The playing fields will form part of FIT's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge which seeks to protect 2,012 outdoor recreational spaces across the UK as a legacy of the London 2012 Games and HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

GSK is making a direct contribution to the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games by providing the equipment and facilities to enable analysts from King's College London to operate a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory, which will carry out all of the drug testing for the Games. Inspired by GSK's support of the London 2012 Games, the company has pledged to protect the use of its Swyncombe Avenue Playing Fields thereby ensuring current and future generations of employees and local community members will benefit from the outdoor space. The site is located in Brentford, close to GSK's headquarters, which today celebrates its tenth birthday.

Sir Andrew Witty, Chief Executive, GlaxoSmithKline said: “We are always looking for ways to enthuse and encourage a healthy lifestyle, and the protection of this outdoor space as playing fields will be of great benefit to our employees, the local communities and their future generations.”

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive, Fields in Trust, said: ''We're thrilled that GSK is safeguarding its Swyncombe Avenue Sports Ground, making it the first London 2012 partner to join our flagship Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge by safeguarding space. The sports ground will become part of the network of fields protected through this grassroots legacy initiative to celebrate the year of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and London 2012.”

Paul Deighton, Chief Executive, LOCOG, said: “I am delighted to see GSK demonstrating its commitment to the legacy of the London 2012 Games. This partnership is a great example of how our partners can positively impact future generations by providing sport-related opportunities in the community.”

Richard Lewis, Chair, Sport England, said: “Hundreds of local people play sport on this playing field, so it's fantastic to see GSK protecting their enjoyment, and that of generations to come, by safeguarding the pitches through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. This is a great example of how local communities are benefitting from the Games.”

-ends-

About Swyncombe Avenue Playing Fields:
The playing fields cover an area of 4.5 acres, are located in Brentford, close to GSK House (http://gsk.to/K3jT3O) and include: Pavilion, 3 x tennis courts, 2 x 5 A-Side pitches, 11 A-Side pitch, Cricket pitch and nets, Showers and changing facilities for 60.

A number of well established clubs and associations use the facilities on a regular basis. The premises are used by 6 cricket teams, 5 football teams and 3 tennis teams, including:
GSK Football Team, Brentford Tennis Association, Northfields 11 aside football Team, GSK Greenford Cricket Team, GSK Brentford Cricket Team, GSK Tennis Team.

GSK's involvement in London 2012:
GSK is the Official Laboratory Services Provider for London 2012, and has formed a partnership with King's College London (KCL) to provide facilities and equipment to enable experts from KCL to independently operate a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory during the London 2012 Games.

GlaxoSmithKline:
One of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies – is committed to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. For further information please visit www.gsk.com.

About Fields in Trust:
- The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is an initiative run by national charity Fields in Trust. The goal is to protect 2,012 outdoor recreational spaces as a legacy from HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- HRH The Duke of Cambridge is Patron of the Challenge and supports our aim to ensure communities have access to outdoor spaces for generations to come
- Established in 1925 as the National Playing Fields Association, Fields in Trust works to improve the protection, provision and quality of outdoor recreational spaces for all communities in the UK. The organisation currently protects 1362 fields totalling 8586 acres and further information can be found at www.fieldsintrust.org
- Further details on The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge can be found at www.qe2fields.com

About LOCOG:
London 2012 Games partners: The Worldwide Olympic Partners who support the London 2012 Olympic Games and the National Olympic Committees around the world are Coca-Cola, Acer, Atos, Dow, GE, McDonald's, Omega, Panasonic, Procter and Gamble, Samsung and Visa.
LOCOG has seven domestic Tier One Partners - Adidas, BMW, BP, British Airways, BT, EDF and Lloyds TSB. There are seven domestic Tier Two Supporters – Adecco, ArcelorMittal, Cadbury, Cisco, Deloitte, Thomas Cook and UPS. There are now twenty-eight domestic Tier Three Suppliers and Providers – Aggreko, Airwave, Atkins, Boston Consulting Group, CBS Outdoor, Crystal CG, Eurostar, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP, G4S, GSK, Gymnova, Heathrow Airport, Heineken UK, Holiday Inn, John Lewis, McCann Worldgroup, Mondo, NATURE VALLEY, Next, Nielsen, Populous, Rapiscan Systems, Rio Tinto, Technogym, Thames Water, Ticketmaster, Trebor and Westfield.
There is one domestic Tier One Paralympic Games-only Partner, Sainsbury's and one domestic Tier Three Paralympic Games-only Supplier, Otto Bock. The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games also acknowledges the support of the National Lottery.

Fields in Trust is delighted to be welcoming our Patron HM The Queen, our President HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to Vernon Park in Nottingham on 13^th June.

Led by its Patron The Duke of Cambridge and supported by its principal partner Asda, our flagship programme The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to safeguard 2012 outdoor recreational spaces across the UK to mark the Diamond Jubilee. In partnership with Nottingham City Council, Vernon Park is one of the sites being protected in perpetuity and this event is a wonderful celebration of a legacy that will benefit communities for generations to come.

A commemorative plaque will be unveiled on Vernon Park on 13^th June along with a showcase of local sporting talent.

We look forward to hosting a very special day!

THAMES DIAMOND JUBILEE ANNOUNCES CHARITY PARTNERS FOR PAGEANT

The Thames Diamond Jubilee Foundation has today announced charities and worthwhile causes who will form a key part in the celebrations of the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant on 3 June.

Four of the bridges along the Thames Pageant route will be given over to charities, and several boats taking part will be representing charities or good causes. The charities have strong links to members of the Royal Family or aims which are compatible with the objectives of both the Thames Diamond Jubilee Foundation and The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust, the official charity partner of the pageant.

Lord Salisbury, Chairman of the Thames Diamond Jubilee Foundation said: “The Pageant organisers were anxious to make the Pageant an unforgettable day, but we also wanted to support the longer-term legacy embodied by The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust. Our own Foundation's charitable objectives are compatible with those of the Trust and we are pleased that our efforts on Sunday, 3rd June will enable us to make a contribution to the lives of young people in the Commonwealth.”

The Trust raises funds to deliver projects across the Commonwealth that enrich the lives and opportunities of all citizens, providing a lasting legacy for Her Majesty The Queen.
The Rt Hon Sir John Major KG CH, Chairman of The Trust said: “The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust is delighted to be the official charitable partner of the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant. The Trust's purpose is to honour and commemorate The Queen's unrivalled contribution to the Commonwealth and intends to fund projects that will enrich the lives and opportunities of all Commonwealth citizens. It is our hope that individuals, organisations and countries will all wish to contribute to the Trust, as a tangible and enduring way of honouring HM The Queen, and to demonstrate the enormous respect and affection in which she is held, not only within the Commonwealth family, but also the wider world.”

Three charities, The Royal British Legion, Plan UK and Fields in Trust will all have prime viewing locations on some of London's bridges, which for security reasons, will be closed to the public for the duration of the Pageant. There is a further initiative, Campaign for Wool, which will also be on a bridge.

Fields in Trust, also a Charity Partner of the Foundation, have worked since 1925 to safeguard outdoor recreational spaces, from sports pitches to children's playgrounds, bicycle trails to country parks. Its programme for 2012, The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, led by the trust's patron, the Duke of Cambridge, aims to safeguard a number of recreational spaces as a legacy of the great events of 2012. Fields in Trust will host 450 guests proudly waving flags and wearing Field in Trust t-shirts on Lambeth Bridge East.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said: “Fields in Trust is delighted to be a charity partner of the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant honouring Her Majesty The Queen, whom we are proud to have had as our Patron since 1952. While we are enjoying the fantastic spectacle of this historic event on the Thames, we are thrilled that towns and villages across the UK will enjoy their own Diamond Jubilee legacy for generations to come, through the protection of their local Queen Elizabeth II Field.”

The Royal British Legion, who is also official Partner of the Thames Diamond Jubilee Foundation, will be hosting guests on London Bridge, including serving members of the Armed Forces and their families and The Military Wives Choir who raised vital funds for the Legion from their Number One single 'Wherever you are' last Christmas. The Choir won't be formally performing, but may initiate a casual “sing a long”.

Russell Thompson OBE, Director of National Events and Fundraising at The Royal British Legion said: “The Legion is delighted to be the official partner of this prestigious and once in a lifetime event to celebrate the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant, in honour of Her Majesty The Queen, the Legion's Patron. It's a stellar year for the nation as we celebrate Her Majesty's 60 years of service, and we'll be proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with members of our brave Armed Forces on London Bridge, as the Flotilla makes its way down the Thames.”
The Legion will also host a party for guests on board a Dunkirk little ship, The Viscount, which will take part in the flotilla while raising much-needed funds for the charity. Celebrity guests on board the Dunkirk Little Ships will include television personality Carol Vorderman MBE and 2009 X-Factor winner Joe McElderry, who will be performing for guests. Joe said: “I'm thrilled to be part of the Legion's salute to the Queen and to support the Armed Forces.”

Plan UK, a Charity Partner of the Foundation, is a global children's charity working with children in the world's poorest countries to help them build a better future. Among their guests on Waterloo Bridge will be hundreds of face painted schoolgirls.
Marie Staunton, Chief Executive of Plan UK said: “We're honoured to be involved in such a momentous occasion – and it's especially poignant that we'll be joined on Waterloo Bridge by hundreds of schoolgirls from around the UK.
“We've been working with the Commonwealth to try and raise awareness about the millions of girls in the world's poorest countries who don't go to school and the Diamond Jubilee will help bring their plight to a global audience.”

The Campaign for Wool was initiated in 2008 by the Pageant's Patron, HRH the Prince of Wales, to promote and champion wool and help invigorate the global wool industry. Their guests will be watching the flotilla pass from Blackfriars Bridge West.

BOATS
Many of the boats taking part in the Pageant will be representing charities or good causes. Some of those boats and charities include:
The International Breast Cancer Paddlers' Commission and Paddlers for Life, are organisations which use dragon boat paddling to raise awareness of breast cancer and to demonstrate that survivors can lead normal lives. Over one hundred teams paddle in twelve countries: Canada, the United States, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa, Italy, France, Ireland and the United Kingdom. Three are several boats of breast cancer survivors taking part in the pageant, Paddlers for Life, Artemis Diana, Internationally Abreast and the Worcester Busters.
The Lyneal Trust: a registered charity that provides holidays and canal boat trips for people with disabilities has two boats in the Pageant. Their vessels Shropshire Lad and Shropshire Lass will be staffed, amongst others, by military personnel, some injured in Afghanistan. Money raised will be donated to the Lyneal Trust, Help For Heroes, the Army Benevolent Fund and The Royal British Legion.
Row for Freedom: in December 2011, they became the first female crew of five to row the Atlantic in support of two charities who are fighting human trafficking: the A21 Campaign and ECPAT UK. Their vessel the Guardian will be in the rowed section of the Pageant.
Rutland Sailability: is a registered charity that provides training, support and equipment to enable people with disabilities to enjoy the challenge of sailing in a safe, welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Rutland Sailability was awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2010. Their vessel the Wally Goldsmith will be in the Recreational Motor Boats section of the Pageant.

-ENDS-
Further information for journalists, contact:
Michelle Lavipour, Executive, Pagefield, 020 3327 4058 / 07940 735 313
Stephanie Shepherd, Executive, Pagefield, 020 3327 4065 / 07854 366 438
Kate Levine, Partner, Pagefield 020 3327 4055 / 07740473641
RiverPageant@pagefield.co.uk
Journalists can find high resolution downloadable photographs on the Latest News pages at http://www.flickr.com/photos/76131179@N03/
Please visit our website at: www.thamesdiamondjubileepageant.org
Follow us on Twitter @riverpageant
Notes to Editors:
1. The Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant is being organised by the Thames Diamond Jubilee Foundation. The Chairman is Lord Salisbury, who – as Viscount Cranborne – organised the D-Day, VE Day and VJ Day 50th anniversary events. The CEO is Michael Lockett, who has worked on the Hong Kong Handover Ceremony, the Millennium project and London's bid for the 2012 Olympics. He was awarded the CVO for his work on the Golden Jubilee concerts at Buckingham Palace. The Pageant Master is Adrian Evans, director of the annual Mayor's Thames Festival.
2. More information on the charities
The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust:
The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust will be run and administered to ensure that every donation is used to the maximum benefit of commonwealth citizens and delivers results that make a real difference to people's lives. It will not establish a major new institution. It will work with established partner charities and organisations across the Commonwealth, both in the UK and elsewhere, to deliver iconic projects that are a fitting tribute to The Queen. The Trust will support programmes under six themes for six decades these range from promoting urban food gardens in inner cities, through using sports to encourage young people to teams not gangs, to providing older people with dignified support in later life. Full details of all 6 themes can be found on the Trust website. The Trustees are: The Rt Hon Sir John Major (Chairman), The Commonwealth Secretary General, The Rt Hon Lord Robertson, Professor Sir Mervyn King, The Rt Rev and Rt Hon Richard Chartres, Bishop of London, The Rt Hon Sir Christopher Geidt and Alan Parker. Projects will be chosen by the Trustees, who will consult widely before reaching decisions. http://www.jubileetribute.org/
Royal British Legion
Royal British Legion is the nation's leading Armed Forces charity providing care and support to all members of the British Armed Forces past and present and their families. It is also the national Custodian of Remembrance and safeguards the Military Covenant between the nation and its Armed Forces. It is best known for the annual Poppy Appeal and its emblem, the red poppy. For more information on RBL see website: www.weblink.co.uk
Plan UK
For 75 years Plan UK have been taking action and standing up for every child's right to fulfil their potential by giving children a healthy start in life, securing the education of girls and boys, and inspiring them to make the right decisions that affect their lives and future. www.weblink.co.uk
Fields in Trust
FIT permanently safeguards outdoor recreational spaces; at present it protects 1,281 spaces across the UK. http://www.fieldsintrust.org/
Campaign for Wool
Campaign for Wool is an initiative set up in 2008 by HRH The Prince of Wales, who observed that without a thriving wool industry, and with further declines in the sheep population, the physical appearance of our landscape is threatened with severe implications for the environment. http://www.campaignforwool.org/

In this year of Olympic sport, 10 communities across the UK have had an innovative and accessible outdoor gym installed in their local park, thanks to national charity Fields in Trust and WREN.

Lucky residents of Workington, Chester, Penistone, Llandeilo, Nottingham, Nuneaton, Rhyl, Wishaw and Warrington will be able to build on the inspiration of this summer's Olympic and Paralympic Games with free, 24 hour access to fresh air fitness.

Streatley Meadows, Berkshire. Owned by Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust

Preserving their heritage
In the first round of QEII Fields County Funds, Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust were successful in their application for funding. Their newly established Streatley Meadows, bordering the village's main street, is a vital element of the village's cultural heritage, preserving rare Berkshire chalk downland. It was to the borders of the site that the Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust first turned their attention, receiving £3000 from the QEII Fields Funds for fencing, access gates and specialist repairs to their 17th century flint wall.

Using local knowledge and skills

“We have received a grant from the QEII Fields in Trust to help us build an interpretation board. Ivor from Goring works in this area and has said he will help us put it together. Bob from Streatley has said he can help us construct it from locally sourced oak”.

and local resources
“Scout's gate was found in a bad state half way back in the field. It was refurbished and relocated at the front of the field to enable a wider vehicular access that the narrow one which exists as farm vehicles have got wider over the years!”

Involving the community
Throughout, the process has involved many members of the local community – consultation over the plans showed 80% of the village wanted the meadow saved for future generations. Despite snow and poor weather they have managed to plant trees, set up new fences, restore their wall and gate!

Fretherne with Saul & Framilode Playing Field, Gloucestershire. Owned by Fretherne with Saul & Framilode Village Hall & Playing Field Charity
Successful applicant: £1,000 for new children's play equipment
In the second round of QEII Fields County Funds, Fretherne with Saul & Framilode Village Hall and Playing Field Charity applied successfully for funding to rejuvenate and expand the children's play equipment on their site. Research had shown that the area had a high proportion of small children, but no play equipment for them. The local play group is based on the site so any play additions would be much used.

Engaging the imagination
“The new funding will provide something to engage the toddlers and help develop the confidence of the quieter children”, Duncan Carter, Chairman of Saul Memorial Hall Committee.

Appreciating the outdoors
Not only will the new equipment encourage children to play outdoors, but it also reflects the natural heritage of the area. The boat will be in keeping with the surrounding environment as the River Severn is only one mile away. The site already has a stone feature that mimics the loop of the Severn in Arlingham, and the boat is to be placed in this area.

“Our boat arrives in 2 weeks, can't wait to see it! We are planting some raised flower beds, one with a Union Jack, one with FIT, and the others with 1952 and 2012 in, our field should look fantastic!!”

Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge Funding Case Study

Town Lane Field, Lancashire. Owned by Heskin Parish Council
Successful applicant: £1,000 for a wildflower meadow, disabled access, a footpath, new benches.

Coun Ed Forshaw, chairman of Heskin Parish Council said:

“We are a small parish and short of public open space. Many, if not all, wildflower meadows have been lost as farming becomes more intensified. Our scheme will enable young and old to enjoy the splendour of a proper wildflower meadow and all that goes with it: wildlife, flora and fauna. Children from Heskin School will be involved in the designing of signs and the planting, as will our older people from the "Young at Heart" club. We have incorporated a user friendly path so that disabled people and young mums with prams can have easy access”.

Enriching their lives
Funding from Fields in Trust has enabled their local space to be improved and a focus for the community to enjoy. It will also be a valuable tool for children to learn to appreciate the natural environment and hopefully recapture the joy of the British Countryside at its best.

Increasing natural diversity
Heskin can now be proud to be contributing to reversing a national decline in these valuable habitats. Despite their high wildlife value and intrinsic cultural appeal, our magnificent meadows have suffered catastrophic declines. Between the 1930s and 1980s, 97% were lost across England and Wales.
Wildflower-rich grasslands are important ecosystems, supporting a rich diversity of plants and animals, including rare and declining species. They contribute to the well-being of our society and as a healthy ecosystem providing essential 'services'. Wildflower-rich meadows and grasslands are an important store of carbon (about 34% of the global stock of carbon held in terrestrial ecosystems), they reduce the impact of flooding, emit fewer greenhouse gases due to lower livestock densities and fertiliser input, and improve soil nutrient retention.

This year, the London Marathon Charitable Trust has partnered with the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry to support the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Read more.

Sherwood Cricket Club (SCC), Kent is one of only four trailblazing cricket clubs across the UK protecting their pitchesfor people to enjoy now and forever. Sherwood has signed their 6.5 acres, serving over 140 members, up to the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. This preserves outdoor recreational spaces forever, building a living legacy to the Queen's Diamond jubilee in communities across the country.

Landowners across the UK are encouraged to play their part in safeguarding outdoor space in conjunction with Fields in Trust. Supported by the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, Fields in Trust's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to protect 2,012 open spaces as a tangible legacy for both HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympics. The dedication will provide communities across the country with a fantastic way to engage with these two historic events at a local level.

“We are delighted that Sherwood Cricket Club has taken this opportunity to protect their space forever. Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and wellbeing of our communities and by protecting this area under the QEII Fields Challenge, the Cricket Club has shown how much they value their community and its future,”comments Alison Moore-Gwyn, chief executive of Fields in Trust.

Within Medway alone we have lost over 10 cricket grounds in the past decade, by ensuring the grounds are protected forever, we have taken the right approach to protect the facilitiesat Sherwood for the club and the local community,” said Tony Rossiter, Chairman of Sherwood Cricket Club. “The benefits are of major importance to any club that are seeking to develop their facilities. Any capital investment from grants and funding are assured that the investments are secure and will benefit the community for the lifetime of the project.”

See more images on our flickr account.

Duke of Cambridge's Diamond Jubilee tribute to the Queen celebrated by Islington park

Gillespie Park launched Have a Field Day today (Friday 30 March) with national charity Fields in Trust. The sun shone on children from local school St John's Highbury Vale as they showed off their handmade Easter bonnets, a fun activity in the spirit of Have a Field Day. Have a Field Days are a fun day for families, friends and neighbours celebrating their outdoor space being protected for future generations through the charity's Diamond Jubilee programme: the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

You can see more fantastic photos from the day on our flickr account.
Through a partnership with Asda, Fields in Trust is aiming to protect 2,012 outdoor recreational spaces by the end of 2012, to create a living legacy from the Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympic & Paralympic Games. The Challenge is being led by The Duke of Cambridge, who commented 'I cannot think of a more fitting tribute to my Grandmother's 60 glorious years on The Throne than to dedicate to The Queen this programme that will save playing fields for future generations.'

So far over 1000 communities across the UK stand to benefit from a protected Queen Elizabeth II Fields. Have a Field Days are a great way of bringing people and families together, as well as encouraging children to get outdoors and get active. They offer something for everyone – football sessions, 'sack races, tea parties, kite making, dog shows, competitions and more. Have a Field Days can take place across the summer of 2012 but many are being held in celebration of the Diamond Jubilee weekend in June.

Queen Elizabeth II Fields across the country will receive Have a Field Day Toolkits to help them plan their event and those holding events will also get a box full of bunting, flags, stickers, badges and other items to help ensure the day is a great success. Communities are encouraged to make their Diamond Jubilee celebrations Field Days by holding them on their QEII Field.

“The Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympics are once in a life time events, and what better way of celebrating than by local people and families gathering together to join in sports, fun activities and games on their permanently –protected Queen Elizabeth II Field. We are delighted with the enthusiasm and range of activities people are planning for their Field Days and hope many more will follow suit, getting outside in the fresh air and enjoying themselves. ” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive, Fields in Trust.

Paul Kelly, Asda's Corporate Affairs Director said, "Asda is proud to be the principal partner of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Green spaces provide free, safe spaces for customers, colleagues and the wider community; everyone should have somewhere they can meet, play or relax – I would urge everybody to vote for a space within their local community.”

“We are delighted that Fields in Trust have chosen Gillespie Park to be protected forever as part of the QE2 Fields Challenge, and we are thrilled to have been chosen by Fields in Trust to launch its brilliant 'Have a Field Day' campaign,” adds Emma Dixon, Friends of Gillespie Park.

“Gillespie Park is hugely important to our local community and one of the jewels in Islington's crown. It's very popular with local families and residents and we're working to make sure that continues for many years to come.” said James Gilchrist, head of Islington Council's Greenspace Services.

We're appearing on billboards near you! Keep an eye out - if you see one, let us know with the twitter hashtag #seenitqe2.

This is the image:

and here it is in place:

Sport England have recently released guidance on using school facilites after hours:

Seeing school sports facilities locked up and out of bounds both after hours and during the holidays has always seemed to waste a valuable resource – particularly in areas where there is a lack of community sports facilities. Historically this has been an area fraught with issues relating to liability, upkeep and access. We hope that Sport England's new guidelines will help more schools, both in the public and private sectors, to navigate this path ensuring these facilities can bring greater benefit to more people, while remaining sustainable

comments Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust.

The Eastern counties of Cambridgeshire, Essex and Norfolk are the top three counties across the United Kingdom when it comes to protecting their space where people can get out for recreation.

Together they have made sure 1682 acres of outdoor space have been protected for future generations to enjoy. That is the equivalent of 934 football fields, which if laid end to end would stretch from Cambridge nearly back to London. The sites in these counties range from clifftop gardens in Hunstanton, a newly opened Nature reserve in Bobbingworth, and a village green in Earith.

With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partners Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge is a living legacy programme to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It aims to protect 2,012 open play spaces across the UK, giving local communities the chance to engage with these two historic events. Landowners across the country are encouraged to play their part in preserving outdoor space by Fields in Trust. And this summer, communities can celebrate their QEII Field by Having a Field Day – a day of fun and activity, with the support of a free goodie box and toolkit from Fields in Trust, to help them run it.

“We are delighted at the number of sites landowners across Cambridgeshire, Essex and Norfolk have put forward for protection as a Queen Elizabeth II Field. By celebrating the Diamond Jubilee in this way, by safeguarding their outdoor spaces, the councils in these counties have shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future. I do hope that we will see other counties wanting to follow this wonderful example” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said.

“The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is a great way for us to show our communities that we value outdoor space and ensuring it is preserved for their future enjoyment. We wanted to help involve people with the events of 2012, and the Fields in Trust scheme has given us that opportunity. I would encourage all landowners to consider this for their spaces,” said Philip Peacock, Community Facilities Manager at Cambridgeshire ACRE.

Each Queen Elizabeth II Field will receive a cast metal plaque indicating that it is part of the programme.

And we can reveal what the plaque will look like here!

Once your deed of dedication for your QEII Field has been signed, we'll be sending you a registration form for your plaque. Look out for it!

See all our press presence in January 2012 (pdf)

27 communities across the country started 2012 with a strong salute to the sporting and royal events of the year to come: their local parks and playing fields were one of the lucky sites to receive a slice of over £55,000. Awarded as grants to Queen Elizabeth II Fields, the funding has facilitated local communities to improve their local parks, from installing new play equipment and improving playing field drainage to planting wildflower meadows.

Prees Cricket and Recreation Club in Shropshire are one of the delighted recipients: “We're extremely grateful for the generous grant of £2,500 towards the renewal of our all weather cricket pitch. Our old pitch was in such a dangerous condition that we were at risk of having to cancel our cricket but with this help we can now renew the pitch. This not only means we can continue to play with our existing teams but are hoping to start another under 13 side this year,” commented Brian Hughes Secretary, Prees Cricket and Recreation Club

The recipients of this round of county funding were spread across Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Hertfordshire, Lancashire, Leicestershire and Shropshire. “We are delighted and very grateful for the grant. The Parish Council wanted to commemorate Her Majesty's Jubilee and the Fields in Trust scheme gave us that opportunity”, added Alan Whittaker, Clerk to Heskin Parish Council.

Families enjoying Town Lane Field, Heskin.

The sites were eligible for this funding as their owners nominated each one for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Becoming part of the Challenge means they will be preserved for future generations to use and enjoy forever. The funding was made available with the support of the Lord-Lieutenant and generous donors in the counties.

With the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, and the support of principal partner Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is a living legacy programme to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It aims to protect 2,012 open play spaces across the UK, giving local communities the chance to engage with these two historic events. Landowners across the country are encouraged to play their part in preserving outdoor space by Fields in Trust.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that these councils and landowners are embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve their sites. By safeguarding these areas, the owners have, by celebrating The Queen's Diamond Jubilee in this wonderful way, shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future. I encourage other councils to watch for further rounds of Fields in Trust County Funding in 2012 to help make their Queen Elizabeth II Field the best they can be,”
Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

Find out if there is funding available in your county for your Queen Elizabeth II Field.

The full list of sites and grants awarded is:
Cotton End Village Hall Playing Field Eastcotts Parish Council Bedfordshire £2,500
The Elms Park Bracknell Town Council Berkshire £2,000
Jock's Lane Recreation Ground Bracknell Town Council Berks £2,000
Calfridus Way Recreation Ground Bracknell Town Council Berks £2,000
Meadow Park, Earley Earley Town Council Berks £3,000
Speen Recreation Ground Speen Parish Council Berks £2,000
Stockcross Recreation Ground Speen Parish Council Berks £4,000
Streatly Meadows Heart of Streatley Charitable Trust Berks £3,000
St Cleer Parish Sports Field St Cleer Parish Council Cornwall £2,000
Thanckes Park Friends of Thanckes Park Cornwall £1,000
Broomhills Playing Field Repton Parish Council Derbyshire £2,500
De Havilland Grange Hatfield Town Council Herts £550
Woolmer Green Village Hall Field Woolmer Green Parish Council Herts £2,500
Moatfield Recreaqtion Ground Hertsmere Borough Council Herts £3,000
Amberswood Common Wigan Council £2,000
Slyne with Hest Recreation Ground Slyne with Hest Parish Council Lancashire £2,000
Town Lane Field Heskin Parish Council Lancashire £1,000
ASDA Sports Site Thurmaston Parish Council Leicestershire £500
Melton Country Park Melton Borough Council Leicestershire £1,000
The Queen Elizabeth II Field, Desford Sport in Desford Leicestershire £1,000
Lodge Road Recreation Ground Fleckney Parish Council Leicestershire £300
Dovecote Playing Field Barwell Parish Council Leicestershire £3,500
Prees Cricket & Recreation Club Ground Prees Cricket & Recreation Club Shropshire £2,500
Baschurch Playground Baschurch Playground Trust Shropshire £2,500
Telford Town Park Arena Telford and Wrekin Council Shropshire £2,500
Gadebridge Park Dacorum Borough Council Herts £2,500
Bovingdon Green Dacorum Borough Council Herts £2,500

There is much fanfare today around the first cabinet meeting of 2012 being held at the Olympic Park with one of the key items on the agenda: how the London 2012 Games can bring lasting legacy to the UK. Six of the eight major facilities now have a legacy plan to benefit local communities and elite athletes but, whilst beneficial for a few, this is a far cry from the wide ranging grassroots sporting legacy that was promised back in 2005.

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, run by national charity Fields in Trust and supported by Asda, will ensure that communities across the whole UK will benefit from the 2012 Games and the Diamond Jubilee. Over 1000 playing fields, playgrounds, bicycle trails, coastal paths and parks have been nominated so far to be permanently protected from development ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to enjoy outdoor sport and play. Marked by a commemorative plaque the Queen Elizabeth II Fields will also benefit from improvement funding programmes from, amongst others, Sport England and SITA Trust and will have the opportunity to host a celebratory event on the site over the Diamond Jubilee weekend.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said: 'The Olympic venues are truly inspirational and will allow the UK to host an Olympic Games we can all be proud of but it is vital that the impact of the Games extends well beyond the summer and autumn of 2012 and well beyond East London. Our Diamond Jubilee legacy programme will provide access to all kinds of recreational facility to communities the length and breadth of the country and, most importantly, will continue to do so for generations to come: this can truly be celebrated and enjoyed as The Legacy by people throughout the UK.

Supported by HRH The Duke of Cambridge, we've had an overwhelmingly positive response to the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge so far but it is not too late to get involved and we're urging all Local Authorities and Town and Parish Councils to nominate their recreational sites and participate in this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.'

Fields in Trust are delighted to announce a £1 million fund supported by The London Marathon Charitable Trust and The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry to provide improvements to Queen Elizabeth II Fields in boroughs all across London.

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, led by its patron The Duke of Cambridge, aims to safeguard and support 2012 outdoor recreational spaces in communities across the UK as a living legacy to both HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. With sites ranging from bicycle trails to woodlands and playgrounds to sports pitches, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields will offer something for everyone and ensure that communities have the opportunity to live healthy and active lives for generations to come.

This fund will be open to any outdoor recreational space protected in perpetuity as a Queen Elizabeth II Field in London to facilitate all kinds of improvements from new goal posts to play equipment, wildflower planting and park benches.

Alison Moore Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said: 'This generous fund will bring fantastic benefit to the newly protected Queen Elizabeth II Fields across the London boroughs.
Outdoor spaces are vital for people's health and happiness – particularly in the densely populated capital where these spaces are often the only access people have to outside space.
We're grateful to both The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry and The London Marathon Charitable Trust for helping us to work within communities to make these spaces even better.'

David Golton, Chief Executive, London Marathon Charitable Trust said:'Since 1999, the Trust has regularly set aside money to help keep playing fields free of threats and open for the community. Our contribution to the joint aims of the Foundation and Fields in Trust continues this work and we are delighted to a major funder contributing to the fields in London'

Nick Booth, Chief Executive, The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry said: 'Building on the Foundation's original support for this project we are delighted to be partnering with the London Marathon Charitable Trust to help ensure fields and open spaces are protected for future generations to benefit from and enjoy.'

ENDS

For further information please contact
Helen Griffiths at Fields in Trust on 07946 188371 /0207 427 2112 / helen.griffiths@fieldsintrust.org

The latest sport participation numbers are out today: there are fewer young people playing sport and also fewer women taking part *. In contrast to missed activity targets, and falling participation rates, Fields in Trust's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge has so far ensured that over 15,000 acres of accessible outdoor recreational space will forever be present in communities.

From bike trails to football pitches, parks and playing fields, the local sites provide existing and future generations with the chance to take part in local sports and outdoor activities. More than 493 landowners have joined with Fields in Trust to dedicate their sites for permanent protection as Queen Elizabeth II Fields. This is a vital element to driving sports engagement. It is also important that local authorities as the main provider of outdoor sports facilities continue to mark out and maintain pitches to good quality and that, while we understand the financial pressures on all authorities, pitch hire prices should remain affordable in the context of what the local users can pay.

“The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge gives the country a chance for the Olympics to drive grassroots sports fundamentally. It is crucial that we do not feel downhearted at the recent participation statistics: with the support of our sponsors Asda, the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is working to ensure a sporting legacy from the momentous events of 2012 – the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics. The more landowners that get behind the Challenge and the inspirational leadership of its patron The Duke of Cambridge, the more access there will be for future generations to play grassroots sports,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said.

*Sport England figures http://www.sportengland.org/media_centre/press_releases/sports_participation_figures.aspx
=ENDS=
For further information please contact:
Kathryn Cook at Fields in Trust on 07931 392 176; 0207 427 2117; kathryn.cook@fieldsintrust.org

Parks and playing fields protected forever with public voter power

Friday 18th November saw the end of Save a Space for Me; a month long online campaign to support outdoor spaces nominated to be safeguarded as part of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Over 20,000 people from councillors, members of the public and sports leaders showed their support for fields with over 10,000 web visits recorded on the day of launch alone.

Seven councils put forward several sites for voting, with 1 or 2 winning out for each and then being protected (eg Elmbridge put forward 5 sites; the site with the most votes will be given QEII status). The results of these votes are downloadable in this pdf

The rest were taking part in 'votes for support'. This was where, even if a site got only a few votes (or none!) they will still always be going forward to be protected forever. But you've all been clicking away madly to show your support and affection for your local sites. The results of this are in this pdf.

Led by charity Fields in Trust and supported by Asda Save a Space for Me was the public's chance to have a say in creating a local legacy from the 2012 Olympic Games and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. HRH The Duke of Cambridge, Patron of the Challenge, lent his voice to the campaign urging people to support their local sites to ensure vital outdoor recreational spaces are protected for future generations.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said: “We're absolutely delighted that thousands of people took the time to say 'Save a Space for Me'. The passion they have shown for their local parks is exactly the community spirit that is so vital to the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Support from our partners Asda has been important in helping us get out there and let people know about the chance to vote for their local spaces. We've had hundreds of postal votes as well, from people determined not to let lack of internet access stop them from showing their support for their local fields.”

Paul Kelly, Asda's Corporate Affairs Director said, "Asda is proud to be the principal partner of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Green spaces provide free, safe spaces for customers, colleagues and the wider community. Everyone should have somewhere they can meet, play or relax – and we are thrilled at the response from the public to 'Save a Space For Me'.”

Jools Granville, Communications Manager at SITA Trust said: “The past month has given the public the chance to show they care for their local fields and parks. We want to help make sure these fields are as good as they can be for the local communities – so we teamed up with Fields in Trust to offer QEII fields the unique chance to apply to SITA Trust's £1 million improvement fund.”


For further information please contact:
Kathryn Cook at Fields in Trust on 07931 392 176; 0207 427 2117; kathryn.cook@fieldsintrust.org

With just two days to go until Save a Space for Me closes, retired greyhounds have come out in force to support protection of local green spaces.

Retired greyhounds are barking loudly in support of a programme led by the Duke of Cambridge to safeguard parks, playing fields and open spaces across the UK.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has joined the campaign to save green spaces for the 4,000 dogs across the country who are homed every year and need places to enjoy walks with their new families.

The British public have just two days left to vote for the parks, playing fields and open spaces in their communities that should be safeguarded for future generations to enjoy at www.qefields.com.

The programme marks HM The Queen's Diamond Jubliee next year when celebrations will be held in parks and on playing fields across the country.

Retired Greyhound Trust Chief Executive Peter Laurie said: “We work really hard to find homes for greyhounds at the end of their racing careers and it is crucial they have somewhere to exercise with their new families.

“We have 72 branches across the country and hundreds of volunteers who look after our greyhounds until homes can be found for them. They need green spaces to walk our dogs every day.

“Parks and green spaces are also meeting places for dog owners - the catalyst for long-lasting friendships and where people have the chance to exercise together with their dogs. It is great that dog owners and their pets can benefit from this programme and we would urge everyone to get involved.”

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of the Fields in Trust charity which is running the scheme, said: “It is great to have the support of the Retired Greyhound Trust. For many years we have been working to protect open spaces, many of which may be the only green space where dog owners can walk with their pets.

“By supporting the campaign online or encouraging their local authority to protect important open community spaces, everyone can get involved in creating this great tribute to the Diamond Jubilee.”

To cast your vote and for more information go to www.qe2fields.com. For further information about the Retired Greyhound Trust go to www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk.


ends

For further media information, photographs or interviews please contact:
Helen Barklam in the Retired Greyhound Trust communications team, tel: 01772 785392 or 07917 148900.

Notes to editors

The charity has housed more than 50,000 dogs since it was set up in 1975. Around 9,000 greyhounds retire from racing each year.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has 72 branches across the country made up of volunteers who are dedicated to finding homes for the dogs in their areas. Many have websites, showing pictures of the dogs that need homes.

Over half of the first wave of sports playing fields to earn improvement funding from Sport England's Protecting Playing Fields fund are Queen Elizabeth II Fields.

48 sports playing fields across England are to be protected and improved in the first wave of National Lottery investment by Sport England's Protecting Playing Fields legacy fund.

Sunday Times article

16 October 2011

The Royal defense of Britain's green and pleasant land has begun.

[behind Times paywall].

Great web page from Cheshire West and Chester council about why they support the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

http://bit.ly/cwchwebsite

Find it under their 2012 Olympics pages.

VALE MP Alun Cairns has asked community councils from Wenove to Wick and the Vale of Glamorgan Council to put forward nominations for The Queen Elizabeth II Challenge. 2012 marks Her Majesty The Queen's Diamond Jubilee and The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, operated by Fields in Trust, is the campaign to protect 2012 outdoor recreational spaces in communities all across the country as a permanent living legacy of this great event.

http://www.aluncairns.co.uk/2011/08/call-for-nominations-for-the-queen-elizabeth-ii-fields-challenge/

Half a century...not out!

Hot on the heels of England's cricketing success at the weekend another big number was hit. Excitement at Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge HQ: we have reached 500! That is 500 outdoor recreational spaces nominated for permanent protection through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge. Since the Challenge launched last year, nearly 8000 acres have been put forward for protection. From the furthest reaches of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to East Anglia, Cornwall and all counties inbetween, landowners have been busy nominating their outdoor spaces. You can see what's near you by entering your postcode on our page.

If there aren't any, why not drop your local council a line and see if they're thinking of putting any forward? The Challenge aims to protect 2,012 open spaces as a tangible legacy for both HM the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympics.

Parish council protects living legacy for their community

One woman's dedication to her local community area has resulted in the protection of open space for future generations to enjoy.

Parish clerk Margaret Richards of Wingham Village in Kent has spent over twenty five years working for Wingham Council. Recently she has helped the Parish Council to be the first Kent landowner to dedicate permanent recreational space for protection through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

Nestled on the edge of the village, Wingham Recreation Ground is a vital part of village life, providing a focus for sport, games and activities and fun for all ages. Signing it up to the Fields Challenge has created a living legacy for HM the Queen and a green reminder of Mrs Richards' work for the local area.

Landowners across the country are encouraged to play their part in safeguarding outdoor space in conjunction with Fields in Trust. Supported by the Duke of Cambridge's patronage, Fields in Trust's Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge aims to protect 2,012 open spaces as a tangible legacy for both HM THE Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympics. The dedication will provide communities across the country with a fantastic way to engage with these two historic events at a local level.

“I congratulate Wingham Parish Council for being the first of what I hope will be many others in Kent to sign up to the Fields Challenge as part of this national tribute to Her Majesty. Physical activity is of obvious importance to the health of our communities and this scheme enables people of all ages to enjoy the benefits of long-term protection for recreational spaces,” Viscount De L'Isle, Lord-Lieutenant designate and The Queen's representative in the County, said.

“Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health of our communities and I am delighted that Mrs Richards and Wingham Parish Council are leading the way. By protecting this area under the QEII Fields Challenge, the Council has shown how much they value their community and its future,” Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said.

“I am extremely proud that we are the first parish in Kent to be awarded this unique status. It enables us to protect our recreation ground forever, when so many open spaces are being sold off. The grounds and facilities been improved recently which has raised the profile of the recreation ground. It is now regarded as being one of the best in the area. This dedication will be a permanent reminder for the village of Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee,” Bryan Curtis, Wingham Parish Chairman, said.

Green spaces to be protected

GREEN spaces in Hoddesdon and Goffs Oak are to be protected from development in honour of the Queen's diamond jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics.

The Old Highway Recreation Ground and Goffs Oak playing fields will be subject to a covenant by Fields in Trust (FiT).

Cllr Hazel Jackson (Con, Bury Green), pictured, cabinet member for direct services, said: “2012 is an exciting year in the UK with two major events scheduled, Her Majesty the Queen's diamond jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics.

“The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, headed by its patron the Duke of Cambridge and operated by Fields in Trust, is a programme to protect outdoor recreational spaces in communities all across the country as a permanent living legacy of these landmark occasions.

“The locations that the council has identified to be included are Cedars Park, Old Highway recreation ground and Goffs Oak playing field.”

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge will protect a diverse range of outdoor space, from sports pitches to woodlands, children's play areas to gardens and bicycle trails to parks to ensure that there is something for everyone.

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge gives communities an opportunity to vote for an outdoor space in their area to become part of the scheme and be permanently protected as a tribute to the Diamond Jubilee.

A spokesman for FiT said: “Whether you live in a dense city or the middle of the countryside recreational spaces are the heart of any community and the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge will ensure that these outdoor spaces are guaranteed for future generations.

“Securing access to grassroots sporting facilities is particularly relevant given the other milestone event taking place in the UK in 2012 – the London Olympics. What better way to mark the greatest sporting show on earth?”

gemma.gardner@hertsessexnews.co.uk

As featured in the Hertfordshire Mercury.

Royal protection for west Cumbria green spaces

(published 7 July 2011 in News and Star)

Four green areas in Allerdale are to become protected as part of a celebration for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and 2012 Olympics.

Workington's Vulcan Park, Flimby, Fletchers Crescent in Maryport and Harris Park extension in Cockermouth will become Queen Elizabeth II Protected Fields – provided that they are supported by the community.

It means the council will be able to access related grants to improve the areas and that the areas would be preserved as playing fields. The council would not be able to build on the land in the future.

The dedication of QE II fields is a project run by Price William in conjunction with the Fields In Trust organisation to celebrate the jubilee and Olympics.

Nominations can include any green space that is owned by a council that is used for leisure and recreational purposes.

The spaces were identified on the basis of their location and their value to the community.

The proposals will go to a public vote in September before being finalised as QE II fields. They cannot gain protected status without a show of support from the community.

Vulcan Park is exempt from the vote as the site is in receipt of a £27,000 grant for outdoor gym equipment under condition that it becomes protected.

Additional sites have been put forward include Hall Park in Workington; Flimby rugby pitch; Camp Road play area in Maryport; The Green opposite Nelson Street in Maryport; the Millennium Green on The Promenade in Maryport; Windermere Road Playing Field and Ellneborough Moor green area in Maryport; and the field next to Harrington Marina.

They have yet to win the approval of the Fields in Trust organisation and Allerdale council.

Hall Park will also need approval from the Curwen Trust in order to be put forward.

Council leader Alan Smith said an email will be sent to other town and parish councils asking if they would like to put forward any other spaces for consideration.

http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/royal-protection-for-west-cumbria-green-spaces-1.855523?referrerPath=news

Press Release 19th April 2011

Chester residents receive a helping hand in getting FIT

Monday's event was a great opportunity to mark the announcement of ASDA as principal partner of The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

We're looking forward to working with the team and the benefit this collaboration will bring to communities across the country.

To find out more about ASDA's involvement visit their website Your Asda.

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge event with Prince William and Catherine Middleton in Blackburn yesterday was a huge success!

During their visit to Witton Country Park Prince William and MIss Middleton met with athletes, footballers and local school children and were shown what a fantastic resource outdoor recreational spaces are to communities.

Prince William signed the deed of dedication officially confirming Witton Park as a Queen Elizabeth II Field. We were also delighted to announce ASDA as the principal partner of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge during the event.

To find out more about the visit read our press release and see the range of coverage below:

Daily Telegraph, Daily Mirror, The Sun, Daily Express,BBC, Sky News

PRESS RELEASE

21st March 2011

Click here to find out more

WREN FIT Zones

If exercise is good for the body and green space good for the mind, a UK charity is killing two birds with one stone by installing 10 outdoor gyms across the country.
Fields in Trust, which works to protect the quality of recreational space across the UK, is using a £300,000 grant from WREN to create the innovative and accessible gyms.

WREN is a not for profit business that awards grants to community projects from funds donated by Waste Recycling Group (WRG) to the Landfill Communities Fund.
Working in conjunction with Fields in Trust's legacy programme to mark both the Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics, the majority of these 'WREN FIT Zones' will be established on the newly protected Queen Elizabeth II Fields. The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, led by its Patron Prince William, aims to protect 2012 outdoor recreational spaces by 2012 creating a permanent and tangible legacy that will benefit communities now and for generations to come.

The ten towns and cities involved in the WREN FIT Zone scheme are Nottingham, Chester, Workington, Penistone, Warrington, Nuneaton, Llandeilo, Rhyl, Edinburgh and Craigneuk.

The WREN FIT Zones will provide fantastic opportunities for people to get fit and healthy in their local park or field using exercise bikes, weights machines, treadmills and skiers. Outdoor gyms are hugely popular and remove many of the barriers people face in engaging with traditional gyms such as cost and perceived ability.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust said: “Outdoor gyms are a wonderful use of public spaces and encourage inter-generational activity for families. It is a great way for everyone to be able to participate in exercise and reap the rewards of improved physical and mental health. We're delighted that with WREN funding we will be able to create 10 of these spaces in areas where they are most needed.”

Peter Cox, Managing Director of WREN said: “WREN is committed to funding projects that make a real difference to local communities, children and families. The outdoor gyms will provide a fantastic space for local people to get outdoors and have some fun while exercising. We're delighted to support Fields in Trust to make this happen and look forward to the completion of the project.”

Combined with the permanent protection of the sites through the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge is a great opportunity to show commitment to the important role outdoor space plays in creating happier and healthier communities

- WREN is a not for profit business that awards grants to community, environmental and heritage projects across the UK from funds donated by Waste Recycling Group (WRG) as part of a voluntary environmental tax credit scheme called the Landfill Communities Fund. Since 1988, WREN has granted over £141m to more than 5,300 projects which benefit people living within 10 miles of a WRG landfill site. For more information please visit www.wren.org.uk

For information about WREN please contact Lucy Clegg or Hannah Freeman at Tribe PR on 01603 417722 or email lucy@tribepr.com

A first time buyer who faced having his house pulled down before he'd even moved in is finally celebrating tonight.

Plans to build a road straight through Gavin Farrand's Sheffield home and a local playing field have now been blocked.

www.itv.com/yorkshire/first-home-saved37781/

(originally published on http://warley.yourcllr.com/2010/07/13/2012-fields-challenge/ July 13 2010)

At Full Council this Wednesday I have put forward to support The Queen Elizabeth II 2012 Fields Challenge” a national scheme to protect playing fields across the Country supported the Patron, HRH Prince William.

My motion in full is:

“Brentwood Borough Council gives it full support to the 2012 Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

2012 will mark Her Majesty the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and we support plans to celebrate the occasion with The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge which will provide a living legacy for this great event.

We believe that green spaces and playing fields are at the heart of our community and through this Fields Challenge will ensure these spaces are guaranteed for future generations.”

The scheme aims to select 2,012 playing fields across the UK to protect them for generations to come.

It is not just a perfect way to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of our Queen, it is an opportunity to provide a lasting legacy by protecting our public parks and open spaces for generations to come. I am proud of the parks and open spaces we have in Brentwood, especially those in my own ward of Warley. We will be doing all we can to celebrate what will be a superb year in 2012 for our Monarch, for sport and for our community.”

Leader of the Council, Cllr Mrs Louise McKinlay, is seconding my Motion. “I am delighted to support William in this initiative, which would be great for Brentwood. We have some fantastic parks and open spaces used for sports and the Fields Challenge will only serve to enhance them further.”

Prince launches jubilee project to save playing fields

(published on BBC news homepage on 7 June 2010 news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/10257816.stm )

Prince William has launched a project to mark the Queen's diamond jubilee by saving hundreds of playing fields. The aim is to create or preserve 2,012 open spaces by 2012, the year the queen celebrates 60 years on the throne.The prince said he hoped the parks across the UK - to be named after his grandmother - would reflect her legacy.

"I sincerely hope that these fields will become a living reminder to all of the Queen's steadfast duty, dedication and love for this country," he said.

'No luxury'

Fields in Trust, which is running the project, says a report from last month indicated that 6,000 playing fields have been lost since 1992.The prince said: "Playing fields are not a luxury. They are a vital component of any healthy and happy community.

"The sad truth is that over the years thousands of playing fields have been lost to development, and many more are under threat today.

"For more than 80 years, the Fields in Trust charity has been working hard to combat this threat by protecting playing fields across the UK from development.

"There has never been greater need for their work."

The project, called the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, is the first major initiative in honour of the Queen's jubilee to involve a member of the royal family.

The prince's private secretary Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton said William's patronage was a personal tribute to his grandmother.

The prince also said the project was particularly relevant given that it coincides with the 2012 London Olympics.

"The Games will herald a decade of major sporting events to be held in the United Kingdom," he said.

"The question is where will our sporting stars of the future come from if we continue to lose access to these important grassroots facilities."

Sports minister Hugh Robertson said: "What better way to mark both the diamond jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics than by ensuring future generations will have access to space for sport and play."

Alison Moore Gwyn, chief executive of Fields in Trust, said: "Access to these facilities is vital to ensuring our communities are robust and healthy - a health that is achieved not just through participating in physical activity but, equally importantly, by providing a sense of community cohesion."

www.princeofwales.gov.uk/mediacentre/pressreleases/prince_william_launches_fields_in_trust_diamond_jubilee_trib_802557298.html

The Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge was officially launched today with the first ever showing of a video message from its Patron HRH Prince William of Wales outlining the campaign and asking the public to support the campaign.

'The year 2012 marks the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and I cannot think of a more fitting tribute to my Grandmother's 60 glorious years on The Throne than to dedicate to The Queen this programme that will save playing fields for future generations'

HRH The Prince William of Wales