In the past few weeks, we have watched our Team GB athletes show dedication, talent and resilience as they achieved success at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with many medal-winning moments that will live long in the memory.

I am very much looking forward to cheering on our Paralympians as they take to the stage over the next few weeks, and I know that all of us are watching with admiration and awe as our athletes do our country proud.

We saw the same thing with the Euros, where our England team brought hope and joy to millions across the country.  It brings us all together – even throughout some of our biggest challenges such as the pandemic. In particular, sport provides inspiration for young people and children. 

This is why nationally, I have just announced a massive increase to funding for UK Sport to £77.4 million a year. Our elite athletes are one of our nation’s greatest success stories and it is important they have the facilities to train hard and deliver incredible results at Paris 2024 and beyond. This investment will also kick-start the search for the next generation of sporting heros.

Who knows - one of them could be in a school in Radlett or Bushey right now! I’ve certainly seen first hand in dozens of local school visits the passion and enthusiasm that teachers and pupils have for sport. And it’s not just in school. Local clubs like Boreham Wood FC and Radlett Cricket Club are mentoring and nurturing the next generation. 

I’m both proud that this country punches above its weight in sport; and determined to ensure funding for us to continue to do so.