CHESHIRE and Warrington are officially the second most active sub-region in England following the latest Sport England APS results – the national measure of physical activity levels.
The latest figures, which show Warrington as the most active borough in the North West league table, highlight a significant growth within Cheshire and Warrington as the sub-region leapt from 4th to 2nd most active in England.
The sub-region comprises the boroughs of Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Warrington and is championed by Active Cheshire, who set the region an ambitious growth target back in 2013. Results confirm that Warrington Borough has seen a phenomenal rise in participation, securing pole position in the North West League tables as the most active borough, closely followed by Cheshire East and Cheshire West who both feature within the top 4 in the region.
Physical activity plays a significant role in the health and wellbeing of local people. Tackling levels of physical inactivity is a key priority for Active Cheshire and its health partners, who want to help to prevent ill health from occurring locally by supporting the 200,000+ currently inactive adults to get active.
The results are a testament to continued investment and innovation within the sub-region and the enduring support of professionals and volunteers alike. In September a public campaign was launched to encourage local communities to become #PartOfTheMOVEment , a whole-system approach to encouraging movement within public places, schools, businesses and communities.
Championed by Cheshire’s Lord-Lieutenant David Briggs this public call to action has acquired an impressive response from public leaders, providers, educational establishments, businesses and families.
Mark Greaves, Active Cheshire Chair, said, “I’m very proud to witness such growth but unsurprised given the energy, ambition and commitment of local partners and communities. Our joint efforts contribute directly to tackling childhood obesity, Diabetes and wider social issues like isolation. We are very grateful to Sport England for continuing vital investment into the sub-region.”
Anne Boyd, Active Cheshire CEO said: “I know local partners will be thrilled with this result as it demonstrates what’s possible through collaboration. Improving levels of physical activity locally can have a dramatic effect on the health of our communities and must not be overlooked as a ‘nice to do’ but viewed as an important part of everyday life. Congratulations and thanks to all involved in achieving this impressive result.”
