NEWS FOR NOVEMBER 2003

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TRUST AIMING TO RAISE 6M FOR HERNE HILL (LONDON) LAUNCHED

Thanks to John Mullineaux http://www.londoncyclesport.com

Val Shawcross (LAM for Lambeth & Southwark), London Mayor Ken Livingstone & Rose Ades head of the London Assemblies Centre for Excellence

The Herne Hill Velodrome Trust which hopes to raise �6m to give the city's only velodrome a facelift was launched at County Hall on November 26. The velodrome, home to a number of major meetings including the Good Friday one, is used by 17,000 people a year and is a vital part of the track racing scene in London. London's mayor, Ken Livingston was on hand to help with the launch along with a large number of other VIP's including, Val Shawcross (LAM for Lambeth & Southwark), Caroline Pidgeon (Deputy Leader of Southwark Council) and Rose Ades head of the London Assemblies Centre for Excellence. All declared their commitment and support to the Trust and the Herne Hill Velodrome.

Graham Geddes, Val Shawcross, Caroline Pidgeon & Rose Ades

Graham Geddes of the Herne Hill trust outlined the plans for the site including an all-weather cover for the track, a gym and an indoor climbing centre that would see the velodrome become a centre for sport all year round. Full information about the plans and how to become a Friend of Herne Hill can be found at www.HerneHillVelodrome.co.uk. The venue in Herne Hill (SE London), where the centenary meeting for Good Friday was held this year, is known as the Wembley of cycling, and has been a part of cycling since the late 19th Century. It was also the venue for track racing in the 1948 London Olympics.

The regeneration plan has already been given planning approval from former leaseholders Southwark Council and London Mayor, Mr Livingstone said: "I'm a big supporter of Herne Hill Velodrome. The London Velodrome Trust's plans for this historic track will be an essential part of London cycling's future - strong links between cycling sport, fun, health fitness and everyday cycling for all."

The number of people who turned up for the launch of the Trust was so great last night the host apologised for the shortage of chairs although guests apparently didn't mind as cake was excellent as it should be at cycling event!

Roller racing at County Hall!