A group of cheerleaders based in Peasedown St John are off to the regional finals in Cheltenham next Saturday thanks to a grant from the village’s Party in the Park festival team.
Bath All Starz, who have been training at the Beacon Hall for the last eight years, applied for £450 to cover travel costs for 50 cheerleaders from the Party in the Park Grant Fund – which was set up three years ago to support community projects and initiatives in Peasedown St John.
The grant was given to the ‘Bath All Starz Supporters’ which is a non-profit group of parents whose mission is to provide financial support for the Bath All Starz Cheerleaders. All money raised is used to advance their cheerleading skills and further the opportunities for the team members.
Last week, Party in the Park festival organisers Karen Walker, Jo Davis and Nathan Hartley visited the squad during one of their training sessions to present the cheque.
Karen said: “Our Grant Fund is sourced through the sponsorship we receive for Party in the Park, entrance fees we collect on the day, and the money we generate from stall hire costs.
“Over the last three years we have been able to give away almost £2,000 to good causes including the Methodist Church, Peasedown Youth Albion FC and Laurel Farm Kindergarden in Carlingcott.”
The Bath All Starz Cheerleaders only compete once per year to keep costs low for parents. Lucy Milsom, a parent and one of the Bath All Starz Supporters, said: “The entry fees at competitions are very high so any financial aid we can offer families especially around Christmas time when fees are due helps everyone greatly. The advantages of taking part in a competition are not only performing and being judged on their hard work and dedication throughout the year but also to witness higher level skills and to inspire.
“The Bath All Starz Cheerleaders returned home last year with a first place trophy, two second place prizes and a third place award. The Party in the Park grant this year will benefit 50 cheerleaders and their families, the majority being from Peasedown St John, to travel to Cheltenham and to compete in 7 divisions of all ages and levels.
“The team will represent Bath and Peasedown St John with pride like every year!”
The British Cheerleading Association regional finals will take place on 23rd February in Cheltenham. The Peasedown-based team consists of four competitive squads.
Jo Davis added: “The Party in the Park team were pleased to support this successful group. They’ve had a lot of success winning trophies across the country, with all the competitors making us proud of Peasedown St John.
“The work carried out by the instructors not only keeps the children healthy and active, but teaches them invaluable lessons about commitment and discipline which will help them later on in life.”
For more information about Party in the Park and the Grant Fund visit www.peasedownpartyinthepark.org.uk. This year’s fund has now closed with the total amount available – £1,500 – being allocated.
Midsummer Party in the Park 2013 will be held on Saturday 22nd June 2013 from 12 noon – 7pm on Beacon Field, Peasedown St John.
