SIR, I was puzzled to read that Peebles Netball had recently received an 'Awards for All’ grant towards its activities. I am hugely supportive of money being put into sport at local level, however, priority should be given to sports clubs and organisations who are fully inclusive.

In relation to the netball club, they have children from P7 'trying out’ their club, and only select a small squad. The vast majority of children are told their presence is not welcome! I have a great-niece who went through this process last year, who has gone from a netball fanatic to someone who hates the game. I only hope she picks up another sport in its place. Netball is not alone in this however, as the same practice is followed by the local football club.

I am all for elite sport, however, clubs receiving funds from the organisations such as Awards for All, Lottery, government or national sports bodies, should allow access to anyone regardless of skill level/ability, sex, race, religion. They can still have their elite squads for competition, but have a pathway system for anyone in their club to attain that position through hard work.

I feel turning children away from sport is very narrow-minded. It goes against current government policy of getting people active, while also meaning that the club themselves will miss out on potential late developers in the sport. I would prefer to see the fully-inclusive clubs and organisations being rewarded in the first instance.

I am, etc.

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