Cash boost for cyclists

Club receives funding award

A West Lothian sports club has been given a cash boost by a mining company.

GRC Triathlon Club, who train all over the county, were handed a £1500 grant by the Banks Mining Rusha Surface Coal Mine Community Fund.

That allowed the coaches to continue training children and adults for various triathlon events, including the club’s own race in Fauldhouse.

They were also able to buy new bike racks for members.

The club has over 20 members ranging from eight to 66 years old and is one of only four triathlon clubs in Scotland able to offer training to under-18s.

Robert Ovens, coach and treasurer, said the group are delighted to receive the grant.

He added: “The donation from Banks has enabled us to keep our commitment to making the Fauldhouse Triathlon a little better every year.

“Our old bike racks were starting to show their age and we were having bikes falling over as they were not sturdy enough.

“Having trialled the new A-frame racks at one of our taster sessions we don’t have any worries about future competitions.”

The club has already been awarded with a silver accreditation by West Lothian Council, recognising its importance to the community. Providing training or racing six days a week, the club offers a people of all ages and abilities the chance to get fit and take part in competitive sport or just challenge themselves.

Mark Dowdall, environment and community director at the Banks Group, said: “We are delighted to be playing a part in improving the facilities at a club that does some great work keeping the local community healthy. We hope that the equipment bought with Banks’ donation will encourage as many competitors and club members to get involved with the club and its triathlon.”

The Banks Rusha Community Fund is a fund set up by family- owned Banks Mining, to support community groups, voluntary organisations and environmental projects in Fauldhouse and Breich Valley.