THE ACHIEVEMENTS of Droitwich and Evesham’s Olympians and Paralympians have recently been celebrated by the region’s MP in parliament.
In a speech in the House of Commons, Nigel Huddleston MP, former Sports Minister highlighted the athletes’ success and emphasised the critical need for continued investment in sporting funding in the UK.
Addressing the Chamber, Nigel congratulated the impressive performances of athletes from the Droitwich and Evesham constituency, including Olympic swimmer Matt Richards,
Paralympian Matt Skelhon, Issy Bailey, Rebecca Redfern, and Matthew Redfern.
“It was an honour to congratulate these outstanding athletes who have made not only their families proud but also our entire community,” Nigel said.
“Their dedication and success represent the very best of British sport, and we must ensure we continue to support future generations of athletes with the necessary funding.”
During his speech, Nigel stressed the essential role of funding in the UK’s sports success, particularly referencing the long-standing support through National Lottery funding initiated under former Prime Minister John Major.
This support, Nigel argued, has been fundamental to the UK’s rise as a global sporting powerhouse, with Great Britain consistently performing among the top nations at the Olympics and Paralympics.
“Since 1996, we have gone from winning just one gold medal to becoming a dominant force, particularly in disability sport, where our Paralympians have excelled.”
“That success is no accident—funding is absolutely critical to supporting our athletes and ensuring our continued prominence on the world stage,” Nigel said.
The former Sports Minister also praised UK Sport, Sport England and sports governing bodies for their efforts in reviving sport and getting the country active again following the pandemic and for maintaining the UK’s leading reputation for sporting excellence, particularly in promoting disability sport.
He highlighted the UK’s second-place finish in the Paralympics as a testament to the country’s support for people with disabilities, noting the role that national broadcasters have played in bringing disability sports to the forefront of public attention.
“The UK leads the world in disability sport. By broadcasting the Paralympics in prime time and making it accessible to millions of viewers, we show what people with disabilities are capable of, celebrating their incredible achievements on the global stage,” Nigel added.
In closing, Nigel reiterated the importance of ensuring sports funding remains a priority to foster future success and promote the vital role sport plays in public health, mental well-being, and national pride.
