LIVERPOOL ONE’s free-to-enjoy summer sport programme launched in spectacular style as Olympic medallist Beth Tweddle MBE took to Chavasse Park to deliver an inspiring afternoon of gymnastics coaching - officially kick starting 6 weeks of sport sessions at Liverpool ONE for families across the region.

Crowds gathered in Chavasse Park as Beth, alongside the Gymfinity Kids team, personally led a series of fun and engaging gymnastics demonstrations for children aged four and above. Beth also hosted a Q&A session where children heard first-hand about her Olympic journey, picked up tips for budding gymnasts, and had the chance to take photos with her London 2012 bronze medal.

Beth Tweddle said:- "It was absolutely wonderful to be working with such enthusiastic young children at Liverpool ONE. I am really passionate about giving children the opportunity to try new activities and have a go and this event really allowed that to come to life.”

The event also marked the return of the annual Liverpool ONE sports grant competition, delivered in partnership with The Guide Liverpool, which will see a total of £3,000 awarded to grassroots sports clubs across the region. Six clubs will each receive £500 to help fund kit, training gear, or other essential equipment - giving young athletes the tools they need to thrive.

Last year’s competition supported a range of teams from across the region, helping to fund new equipment, upgrade facilities and ease costs for families involved in local sport. This year, the call is once again open to all clubs and teams working with children aged 4-16, regardless of sport or size based in Liverpool, Cheshire, Halton, Knowsley, Sefton, St Helens, Warrington, West Lancashire or Wirral.

Jay Hynd, Managing Director of The Guide Liverpool, said:- "Grassroots sport is where dreams begin, and Liverpool is a city built on passion, pride, and community. Our region is home to some incredible clubs, teams and young talent, and we’re proud to play a part in helping them grow. Both Liverpool ONE and The Guide are calling on teams and sports clubs of all sizes to apply. We would love to hear how this funding could make a real difference where it matters most."

Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE, said:- "Beth's masterclass was a tremendous success and demonstrates our commitment to bringing sport directly to families in the heart of the City. The enthusiasm from the children and their families was inspiring. We're very excited to launch our annual Sports Grant competition once again. Supporting our local community and nurturing sporting talent remains incredibly important to us. We know there are exceptionally talented young people across our region, and we want to help remove barriers that might prevent them from reaching their potential."

Applications for the Sports Grant are open now and close on:- Friday, 29 August 2025. Clubs and teams interested in applying will need to explain how they would use the funding, describe their history and community impact, and outline what the support would mean to their members.

The Sports Grant competition forms part of Liverpool ONE’s wider Summer on the Park programme, with free events taking place across Liverpool ONE throughout the school holidays. From live music and pop-up performances to the return of Tickle the Ivories and an urban beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy - all designed to bring families and communities together in one of the City’s most vibrant destinations.

For more information about the Sport Grants competition, please visit this website. 

To find out more about Summer on the Park, click here.