Kids Run Free’s efforts praised in MPs’ discussion

The Conservative MP praised the work of Kids Run Free, which organises free competitive running events for children in Leamington and across the Midlands, during a question time session in the House of Commons last Friday.

Speaking to Maria Miller, Secretary of State and Minister for Culture, Media and Sport, Mr White stressed the importance of Government support for causes such as Kids Run Free, which encourages children to be active and enjoy the outdoors.

The charity’s trustee and managing director Martine Verweij said: “We’re delighted to have been commended by Chris White and have our cause recognised in Parliament.

“We wholeheartedly agree with the Government’s commitment to extending the Olympic legacy and plans for better PE lessons as it’s vital that the importance of physical exercise - and the enthusiasm for it - is instilled in children from a very young age.

“Our events are very well received and make a real difference to the communities in which we have launched them. Our aim is to encourage healthy living and exercise in children of school and pre-school age to help reduce the worrying childhood obesity numbers that are regrettably on the rise.”

To find out more about Kids Run Free, visit www.kidsrunfree.co.uk

Mr White also lobbied the Government to support the Coventry and Warwickshire City Deal proposal - which has subsequently been accepted.

On Monday Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg announced that the area is among 20 to be included in the next wave of City Deals, which will give local authorities greater powers in work aimed at increasing jobs and business growth.

Coventry and Warwickshire’s bid is focused on advanced manufacturing and engineering and improving the skills base in the area.

Speaking after Mr Clegg’s announcement, Mr White said: “This is a sign of the potential that exists in our area to be an engine of growth in the UK economy. We have a great manufacturing heritage and this City Deal builds on our strengths.

“The bid could create tens of thousands of new jobs and ensure that Coventry and Warwickshire remains a hub of manufacturing excellence. I hope we can see swift progress on the final details so we can get on with the work of making these ambitions a reality.”