THE SECOND workshop set to help sports clubs in South Somerset thrive is due to take place in Chard later this month.

The inaugural Club Matters workshop was held at the start of March at Chard Rugby FC and was well attended by clubs in the area.

The event is free to attend and was set up by South Somerset District Council this year to try and improve the futures of the region’s sports groups.

The first workshop focused on marketing with the second one, which is set to take place on August 26 from 6.30pm at Chard Rugby Club, will focus on club structures.

Councillor Amanda Broom, who organised the event, said: “In early 2016 I submitted a motion to full district council, asking SSDC to support a future plan for sporting facilities and sporting development within Chard.

“The District Council is supporting clubs with as many of these actions as possible, but from attending a Sports England training session, it became clear there is much more support out there for all sports and physical activity clubs.

“From this training session, and the support of Sport England, I have now set up the first Club Matters workshop. If clubs find it of use, there are many more than can be held.

“One of the key ideas with setting this up was to enable all clubs to network with each other and discuss best practice, agree strategic plans and work together where possible.

“Physical activity benefits us in so many ways, not just physical fitness, but it helps alleviate long term health conditions like asthma, and of course can be a major benefit to those suffering with mental health issues.”

The first event was attended by many sports clubs, representatives from Holyrood Academy, and Thorncombe Sports and Social Club.

Gavin Smillie, chairman of Chard Rugby Club, said: “I found it really useful, Paul Black (Club Matters) kept it light and interesting. I have already made changes to our web site following his suggestions.”

Councillor Sylvia Seal, SSDC portfolio holder for leisure and culture, added: “The workshop was very well attended and it was great to see so many different groups interested in learning to promote themselves.

“It certainly gave a lot of food for thought and some really useful tips. The ball is now rolling and we are confident we will see many more groups and clubs that will want to take part in another session.”

For more information, visit www.sportenglandclubmatters.com.