​What a wonderful celebration for the first anniversary of JK Karate Academy in Tooting. Our community is made stronger by organisations like this, and it was a privilege to present awards to the dedicated students. Their focus and commitment were truly inspiring to witness.

This event held a special significance for me. Learning martial arts as a girl was a transformative experience, instilling a sense of self-belief that has been crucial throughout my life, from the A&E frontline to my work in Parliament. It teaches young people to face life's challenges with courage and resilience.

A huge congratulations to the instructors and students at JK Karate Academy for a brilliant first year. Keep up the fantastic and empowering work

Sending my very best wishes to our incredible athletes representing Team GB at the Winter Olympics! The whole country, and all of us here in Tooting, will be cheering you on. Go make us proud

It was a thrill to officially open Taking Care of Fitness today, a brilliant new hub just moments from Tooting Bec station. This new studio’s focus on small group training offers a welcoming space for local people.

Their dedication to holistic community health is particularly inspiring. By partnering with organisations like Parkinson’s UK and local rehab groups, they are building a truly inclusive service. This is a wonderful addition to Tooting and I encourage everyone to check out their opening offers

It was incredible to watch the Lionesses bring home the Euros for a second successive tournament. It was amazing to see the excitement around the country for women’s sport and the celebrations following their success. Seeing the Lionesses conquer all gives children real inspiration to achieve their dreams!

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What a journey the Lionesses had this summer! Although it wasn't the result we wanted, our fantastic team can hold their heads high in pride for their performances and spirit. A World Cup final following on from a European championship win last year is an incredible record and I am sure we will be right up there again in four years.

My family were firmly glued to the sofa all tournament and many spirited debates were had about England's best player. My eldest and I were firmly Team Lauren James, while my youngest maintained throughout thaT Russo is our star. Either way, very well done once again to the Lionesses and congratulations must go to Spain too for a well-played final.

​Recently I visited the fantastic Balham Ballers holiday club, based at Ravensbourne Primary school. 

Balham Ballers provide a sports programme for young people aged five to twelve over the school holidays,  focusing mainly on football but also giving young people a chance to enjoy a wide range of other sporting activities. I have loved working with the Balham Ballers team over the last few years and it has been fantastic to see them go from strength to strength. 

Balham Ballers are passionate about promoting a love of sports amongst both boys and girls. This is something that I am particularly supportive of. Following the Lionesses' fantastic win at the Euros earlier this month, the England football team have said "every girl should be given the chance to play football at school." However, currently only 63% of schools offer equal access to football, a number that falls to just 44% at secondary schools. 

It was great to see so many young people in our community enjoying football, and I even took a penalty myself! 

To find out more about the Balham Ballers, click here. 

What a fantastic summer of sport we’ve been treated to! I was lucky to be able to experience the absolutely electric atmosphere at Wembley as the Lionesses roared to an inspirational victory which was one of many sensational memories from the tournament, from Russo’s backheel to Toone’s winner, I know so many young girls will be inspired to continue the wonderful legacy left by this team. 



The Commonwealth Games have also had a more local hero. Eden Cheng won a silver medal in the 10m synchro platform competition along with Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix. Eden is a brilliant example of our community producing talented athletes, and I am sure many will aspire to reach Eden’s success. Congratulations to Eden, and all the medal winners at the Games!

Tooting Bec Athletics Track reopened this summer after a successful community campaign against its closure. It was great to be at their official reopening along with local Councillor Judi Gasser.

It was great to meet some young athletes and see the wide range of facilities that they offer, including a seven-a-side football pitch, an eight lane track, and a state of the art fitness centre. I am so grateful we have this brilliant resource on our doorstep in Tooting.

The fantastic facilities at Tooting Bec Athletics Track will be vital in helping Tooting’s children become the Olympians of tomorrow. I have no doubt that future Team GB medalists are already training here and I look forward to seeing what they all go on to achieve.

This week the Council finally listened to us! 

Our beloved Tooting Bec Athletics Track will be saved and get the investment it so desperately needs and deserves.  

To lose such a valuable asset in our community would be a devastating blow to so many of our young people. Having this track will be useful for encouraging young people to be physically active and lead a healthy lifestyle. 

Thank you to everyone who joined the efforts to save our track!

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