Rutland and Melton's Conservative MP has met with the team behind a local community exercise and wellbeing centre to award them with a National Lottery grant.

On Friday, Alicia Kearns MP met the team at Inspire2tri CIC to learn more about the facilities and classes on offer here, including the award-winning outdoor Rainbow Exercise Trail for elderly and vulnerable people. 

In attendance at the visit was Mary Hardwick, the Founding Director of the project, Manager, Jo Roberts, and Lynette Patino, the Clinical Lead of ICB and Inspire2tri strength trainer.

Inspire2tri was founded in 2012, and is made up of a small team of dedicated instructors and volunteers who provide friendly exercise classes for older or vulnerable adults. Activities include their own studio and gym, pool, Outdoor Rainbow Trail and an open water swimming venue at Rutland Water. 

The Rainbow Trail outdoor facility won the Physical Activity Project of the Year in the Active Rutland Let's Get Moving Sports Awards. 

Last year, the trail was enjoyed by users, who celebrated the anniversary of the Rutland Round with a 64.8 mile challenge.

The Rainbow Trail was launched in 2020 and has seen users walk the length of the Rutland Round. Image credit: Nub News.

Alicia presented a cheque from the National Lottery Community Fund Grant 'Strength for Life', which will provide funding for strength training equipment for their older and clinically vulnerable adult classes. 

Alicia also took part in one of Inspire2tri's undercover outdoor exercise classes. 

Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton said: "It was a pleasure to meet the wonderful team of volunteers and instructors at Inspire2tri, and see the incredible impact they have on the lives of elderly members of our communities through exercise. 

"Inspire2tri's Founding Director Mary is an inspiration to us all, and her vision has allowed so many people to realise their own fitness and sporting goals in a friendly and welcoming environment. 

"Exercise is vital for not only our physical, but also mental health, and the classes on offer here provide the perfect opportunity to meet up with old friends, and also foster new friendships." 

Inspire2tri is a hub for physical and mental wellbeing. Image credit: Alicia Kearns.

The organisation was awarded £2,269 from the National Lottery fund.