Three sports projects in some of the most disadvantaged areas of the West Midlands will receive a share of £530,554 of National Lottery funding, it has been announced today.  Using sport to improve lives, the projects will tackle social problems directly affecting young people, families, and women.

Cycling passions are riding high in Haringey following the borough’s first ever cycling conference. Professionals, lobbyists and enthusiasts came together for the gathering at the Bernie Grants Arts Centre on Thursday, which saw contributions from experts around the world. The 140-strong conference crowd swapped ideas and experiences about what everyone can do to ensure cycling is easy, safe and encouraged in their area.

Dozens of youngsters are pulling on their trainers for a weekly run around Wednesfield Park. The new Wednesfield Junior Parkrun, which launched recently, is held every Sunday morning, giving children and young people aged from four to 14 the chance to complete a 2km circuit around the park. Those taking part are encouraged to run, jog or walk for their own enjoyment and at their own pace, and parents can also join in if they wish.

UK Athletics has confirmed that Jason Gardener will become the next President of UK Athletics taking over from Lynn Davies at its AGM on December 4. Gardener, currently a director on the UK Athletics Board - a position he will relinquish when he becomes President - has confirmed he is honoured to accept the role and paid tribute to the outgoing President Lynn Davies for his service to the sport.

Nine members of staff from leading regional building society the West Brom are limbering up to take part in the 2015 Morrisons Great Birmingham Run Business Challenge. The group, all from the building society’s headquarters in West Bromwich, will aim to complete the 13.1 mile half marathon course on Sunday, October 18.

A five-a-side football team from Booth House Lifehouse, Whitechapel, lifted the Partnership Trophy cup after seeing off dozens of competitors from across the UK, defeating Centenary House, Belfast, by five goals to two. Hundreds of footballers from Salvation Army Lifehouses (residential centres) and supported housing across the United Kingdom flocked to Goals Manchester’s five-a-side pitches for the chance to be lift The Salvation Army’s Partnership Trophy.