Ealing borough have announced support for Met-Track into 2012 and beyond with a cash injection that will see their project reach into 2012 and possibly beyond. It stands as one of the most successful schemes in London, and continues to go from strength to strength. A steady stream of young people attend the Met-Track sessions at the Perivale track every Thursday between 4.30pm and 6pm, and several have gone on to join the local athletics club.
The borough are holding an Easter awards event where the local Police Borough Commander will attend and present certificates. Parents are also invited and a light buffet will be provided. Statistics representing the past year's work set the borough aside from the majority of their neighbours:
• 81 tee-shirts awarded;
• 55 bronze, 23 silver, and 15 gold medals and certificates presented;
• 39 hoodies given out;
• 9 track passes awarded;
• 11 pairs of spikes given;
• 40 Met-Track rain jackets given out.
The borough sent 22 participants on a recent Star-Track athletics week, and have further diversified with visits from specialists who have completed a comprehensive programme of activities for local young people. A throws event has been organised this Easter with the West London Hammer School, and some Met-Track youngsters are looking to compete in a local open track and field meeting during the holidays. The Metropolitan Police Firearms Unit are sending officers down to speak to the group, and further presentations will be arranged for later in the year.
"Ealing are a shining example of what can be achieved with a little effort and coordination," said Scheme Director, John Powell. "They are delivering a quality product, targeting the right audience, and seeing very few of their number entering the anti-social behaviour radar, let alone offending or reoffending."
Read past news stories on Ealing Borough here.
