Worthy praise for Holt's new youth gym

Richard BatsonThe team behind a successful youth project at Holt has been praised by a man who is used to managing them, but is also a great supporter.Former Norwich City and current Northern Ireland boss has helped the Holt Youth Project from the start, with donations and performing the opening ceremony in 2004.Richard Batson

The team behind a successful youth project at Holt has been praised by a man who is used to managing them, but is also a great supporter.

Former Norwich City and current Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington has helped the Holt Youth Project from the start, with donations and performing the opening ceremony in 2004.

He was back there at the weekend to see its latest venture, a �56,000 purpose-built gym annexe, called the Health Hut, with �22,000 worth of equipment aimed to providing affordable fitness for local young people.

Mr Worthington, who still lives in the area, said that as a football manager he recognised a 'fantastic team' pulling together around its manager Julie Alford. He presented a signed Ireland shirt to the centre, handing it to Matthew Bayley, who led the project's fund-raising bids which made the gym possible.

Mrs Alford received a surprise presentation from the visiting High Sheriff of Norfolk Robert Carter who gave her a sheriff's community award in recognition of the service she had given to the town and its residents.

MP Norman Lamb also attended the official opening of the Health Hut, and as Liberal Democrat health spokesman said it would help towards the aims of getting the population healthier and fitter.

He praised the centre, which was a role model for other towns.

'If this could be achieved in towns across Norfolk and the nation, it would make such a difference,' he added.

To find out more about the gym and project, call 01263 710918 or visit www.holtyouthproject.org.uk