MSP Calls For Free Athletics

A Fife MSP wants children to be given free access to athletics tracks.

Murdo Fraser believes it would help capitalise on the legacy of Glasgow 2014, and create a fitter, more active nation.

He says nearly every track in Scotland currently charges juniors for access, with facilities in Fife costing £2.90 per visit.

Mr Fraser said that's a barrier for many young people: 

“2014 has been an incredible year of sport and we must work hard to capitalise on the great track performances from the likes of Lynsey Sharp and Eilidh Child in the Commonwealth Games.

“Increasing participation in sport, especially athletics, must start at a young age and I believe making athletics tracks free to use for those under sixteen could result in a spike in participation.

“Youngsters have a number of options with which to spend their free time. Therefore the Scottish Government and Local Authorities must work together to make sport a cheaper alternative to playing computer games. A first step in doing so would be removing the cost-barrier, and I have written to Council Leaders expressing this view.”