The Duke of Gloucester supports community fitness and youth projects in Birmingham

The Duke was taken on a tour of Bloxwich Active Living Centre, meeting local school children who were taking part in swimming classes and sports activities. The Duke also met local residents in the gym, and observed a balance class helping older people who are less steady on their feet, before unveiling a plaque to officially open the Centre. Bloxwich Active Living Centre has been designed by Walsall Council as a hub for the local community, as well as a place to improve health and wellbeing.

Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Kath Phillips said: “It has been an absolute honour to host His Royal Highness, and to have him officially open Bloxwich Active Living Centre. I am delighted to say that the Centre has already established itself as a hub for the local community.”

The Duke then paid a visit to South and City College in Birmingham, to see the work of the All 4 Youth & Community charity. The Duke met with Mohammed Zafran, founder of All 4 Youth, who explained how the charity provides opportunities for young people in Birmingham to get back into education through sporting initiatives. Mr Zafran set up the charity after his brother-in-law was killed in a knife crime incident.

Mr Zafran said: “We are thrilled to receive the The Duke of Gloucester and have enjoyed showing The Duke the great work the charity has done in the local area in providing opportunities for youth to get back into education via sporting initiatives. South and City College have fully supported the charity from the start.  We welcome The Duke’s support on further growing the charity and providing even more opportunities for young people from across the country.”