The days ahead certainly look brighter, as we enjoy some warmer weather at last; and slowly, tentatively start to make plans following the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown.
I know Gazette readers will share my excitement as we look forward to the re-opening of Ross-on-Wye and the relaunch of the town’s vibrant community groups, clubs and businesses.
For many Ross runners, the return of parkrun events will be a huge step forward--literally--toward the return to community sports and normal life.
While nothing is guaranteed and there is still some uncertainty within the parkrun community, I am hopeful that junior parkrun events across England will be able to return from Sunday 11 April 2021, with all 5k parkrun events across England returning from Saturday 5 June 2021.
It is great news that Ross Rowing Club have also been awarded a Sport England grant of £75,000. This is a huge boost to the club which was not only affected by COVID-19, but damaged by flooding.
The funding will go towards the clubhouse renovation and refurbishment, including new a roof, as well as other planned projects, such as extending the car park, installing mains drainage, and replacing the concrete steps.
I can't wait to see the club bounce back with a fantastic refurbished clubhouse, and much improved facilities.
As with so many events, the Rowing Club were forced to cancel their fabulous Regatta in 2020. This year, let us all hope that the Ross Regatta will be able to go ahead, with competitive racing in shells and those dragon boats alike!
In another win for Ross’ sports clubs, grassroots football can return from March 29th. As Ross Juniors await further guidance from the Football Association, the club is planning for training sessions to return to the sports centre and grass pitches.
Better still, the newly refurbished sports centre will be nearer completion. As well as the reopened car park and enhanced facilities, the clubhouse will be completely refurbished internally.
Ross Juniors are also planning age-specific tournaments throughout the summer in order to make up for the football that has been missed, including an 11 v. 11 tournament which is planned in the first week of June.
It all adds up to a summer of great community sports in Ross. I can’t wait to see the town’s many sports clubs relaunched, and I hope returning bigger, brighter and better supported than ever!