Paddlers secure cash boost

A Lochwinnoch community sports facility is set to benefit from sportscotland investment.

West Coast Paddlers has won a share of a £1.5million Sport Facilities Fund to bolster its boat facilities at Castle Semple Loch.

The project will receive £13,626 to help provide a secure storage space for boats and equipment, while a new training and teaching space will also be created.

West Coast Paddlers are a Scottish Canoe Association affiliated kayaking club who are active in most areas of paddle sports.

Peter Benson, chairperson of West

Coast Paddlers, said he was delighted to receive the cash boost.

“This facility will make a big difference to all West Coast Paddlers members by providing secure storage for club and member equipment,”he said.“It will also allow the club to engage more with the community, introducing others to the social and fitness benefits of kayaking.”

This investment has been made possible thanks to National Lottery players, who raise £30 million each week for good causes across the UK.

Chief executive of sportscotland, Forbes Dunlop, said:“The aim of the

Sports Facilities Fund is to support sustainable and inclusive projects with their ambitions of using sport and physical activity to enhance the lives of their local communities.

“The physical and mental health benefits of sport are well documented, but equally important is the ability to create a space where everyone is welcome to participate at their own level.

“Projects like this one in Lochwinnoch not only create opportunities for people to take part in sport and physical activity but can also provide a place for communities to come together.”