The National Youth Agency: Win hands sporting chance to Harrow

The sports facilities at Centenary Park Sports Club in Harrow have a long history, and for many years were successfully used to host a hugely popular series of football and tennis tournaments. In doing so, it kept local young people off the streets and gave them something productive to do. Sadly, due to a deteriorating pitch surface, the tournaments had to be suspended.

With the help of Harrow Youth Services, a dedicated group of 20 young people who used to enjoy participating in sport at the park set about raising the funds needed to refurbish the facilities. Their intensive efforts culminated in winning a grant from the Youth Capital Fund. The long- awaited resurfacing of the pitch began in April 2007. After a few weeks, young people began to revisit the site, putting their names down for the next round of competitions. It is hoped that the safer playing surface and positive publicity generated will also enable local young people with disabilities to take part.