Power of sport

THE World Cup-winning exploits of Mike Tindall, the Otley-born rugby player now engaged to the Queen's granddaughter Zara Phillips, have obviously made a favourable impression on the Royal family, with the importance of grassroots sport underpinning Her Majesty's traditional Christmas message.

By The Newsroom

Published 23rd Dec 2010, 20:30 BST

Updated 23rd Dec 2010, 20:30 BST

Her remarks could not be more timely. For, while the Queen has, to her eternal credit, always remained non-political, her remarks must force the coalition to reappraise its approach to grassroots sport. In a week when the Government capitulated over its planned cuts to school sport, Her Majesty highlights how sport can be a force for good by bringing together young people from different cultures.

Yet without basic facilities such as a playing field, and some equipment, however rudimentary, this is not possible. The lasting legacy of the 2012 Olympics was supposed to be a revolution in community sport. And, if the coalition chooses to ignore the Queen, perhaps Her Majesty could send her granddaughter's future husband to rugby tackle the necessary Ministers – literally – before this opportunity is lost.