development. All online sessions are priced at £3 and can again be booked through the Bedford Blues website. Head of Community, Adam King said: “Amid


school closures throughout the current lockdown, Blues Community want to continue helping player development where possible. We understand the importance of youngsters continuing to improve their rugby while the current national lockdown is in place. “We hope, through our various diff erent options


currently available, we can hone specific areas to develop as well as improving general play. Whenever junior rugby is permitted to return, we want players to be ready to showcase these new skills and improvements thanks to our coaching.” Away from rugby, Bedford Blues’ charitable arm,


Blues Foundation continues to have a great impact in the local community and at Christmas was able to provide 21,000 items to Bedford Foodbank following a collection at Goldington Road. The new year has already brought some


inspiring highlights, with Bedford Blues wing Pat Tapley completing a 100-mile cycle on New Year’s Day to raise vital funds for the charity and the school in which he teaches, St James CEVA. T is cycle began the #TryJanuary campaign, a


wellbeing initiative promoting mental and physical health through exercise, with everyone challenged to complete 31 kilometres of any activity and then donate to the charity for their contribution. Funds generated through schemes like these


have since gone to fund frozen meals for the vulnerable in Bedfordshire and will help the latest project, which sees Blues Foundation and Bedford Blues team up with the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire. One of the biggest problems highlighted


during lockdown has been digital poverty, with The Office for National Statistics believing 12% of young people aged 11 to 18 have no internet access through this lockdown. With the majority of school and university students told to remain at home during this current nationwide lockdown and complete work online, the need for technology has never been more prevalent. After a successful first collection of devices


in January, there still remains a dire need for technology to be given to disadvantaged and vulnerable families in the local community so that children and young people across the county have all the tools needed to complete their online learning.


Pat Tapley


The Bedford Blues’ wing who cycled 100 miles for charity.


If you think you can help tackle the digital divide, look out for your


closest drop-off point, a full list of which can be found on the Blues Foundation website or their social media channels. Blues Foundation Manager, Tom Harwood said: “It’s been great


to support young people across Bedfordshire access education with nearly 100 devices already distributed. We want to continue our support throughout 2021 and beyond. If you would like to help support our work in the local community please get in contact to discuss options.”


Corporate partnerships and sponsorships opportunities remain available for Bedford Blues and Blues Foundation, email gareth@bedfordrugby.co.uk or info@bluesfoundation.org.uk for further information.


ALL THINGS BUSINESS 33


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