Local clubs chosen for national energy scheme
Two long-standing Birkenhead gymnastics clubs have won selection for a national energy-efficiency campaign that could deliver £40,000 of improvements to their shared home at Drill Sports Hall — if they can hit a £10,000 fundraising target.
Birkenhead Trampoline Club and Wirral Gymnastics Club were among 12 grassroots sports groups picked for the British Gas Energy for Tomorrow programme, which will match-fund three times whatever the clubs raise, up to a maximum of £40,000, British Gymnastics confirmed.
What the money will pay for
The clubs say the funds would be used to tackle long-standing issues that make parts of the building difficult to use, particularly during the winter months. Planned works include upgrading old lighting to LEDs, replacing draughty front doors and installing heating in the front entrance, corridors and toilets — areas which currently have no heating at all.
- LED lighting to improve energy efficiency and visibility
- Replacement of front doors to reduce draughts
- Heating for entrance, corridors and toilet areas
- Opening up of a former café area for community use
The clubs operate across artistic, tumbling and trampoline disciplines, run recreational classes and Pilates, and host squads from mini‑tots through to adults. The Autistic Together Society also runs sessions at the venue five times a week, underlining the hall’s community role.
"We have to raise £10,000, and if we hit that target, British Gas will meet it by another £30,000 so we actually get £40,000,"
The remark was made by Sarah, who started at Birkenhead Trampoline Club as a 12‑year‑old gymnast and has been head coach for four years. She said the application was spotted by a parent on British Gymnastics' social media and that the clubs were successful in their bid to join the scheme.
More space, better use all year round
Michelle, head coach of Wirral Gymnastics Club for 13 years and co‑leader of the club with her daughter, said the improvements would allow currently unused or cold spaces to be brought into regular training use. She highlighted a dance studio and an educational room that could function as warm‑up areas or additional training space once heated.
"Both spaces could be used for training as well, or a warm-up space,"
The clubs also hope to reopen a former café area, which would provide a better social and waiting space for parents and carers as well as potential extra income or community activity space.
How they're raising the cash
The fundraising drive has pulled members together across ages and abilities. Events include neon parties and outdoor Pilates sessions, while individuals have taken on personal challenges — from open water swims to a "£100 challenge" where gymnasts do something different in or outside the gym to raise funds. Some athletes are fundraising by attempting 100 repetitions of various skills.
| Funding element | Amount |
|---|---|
| Target to raise locally | £10,000 |
| British Gas match-funding (if target met) | £30,000 |
| Total possible funding | £40,000 |
For Birkenhead, the outcome matters beyond the clubs themselves. Better heating and lighting would mean more usable hours at Drill Sports Hall, improved comfort for participants and visitors, and the potential for additional community activities in rooms currently too cold to use consistently.
The fundraising push demonstrates the clubs’ community spirit: volunteers, parents and young athletes are already working together to secure the shortfall, with the promise of significant investment if they meet their local target.
