THE Shadow Secretary of State for International Development, Andrew Mitchell MP, has praised the work of a Harlow club which he says is "rooted in the community". 

Mr Mitchell, at the invitation of prospective Harlow Conservative MP Robert Halfon, visited Harlow Gymnastics Club at Sumners Leisure Centre, Broadley Road, Harlow, on Friday evening. 

During his visit he also met Harlow paralympian Anne-Wafula Strike and learnt more about her overseas aid work in Africa. 

Mr Mitchell said: "I was delighted to be invited by Robert to visit Harlow Gymnastics Club. This is a club that is rooted in the community and is based on excellence. The young children did a superb display. 

"I was also pleased to meet with Anne-Wafula Strike, a paralympian who is doing important overseas aid in Africa." 

Mr Halfon, who is contesting the Harlow seat which includes Hastingwood, Matching, Nazeing, Roydon and Sheering, said: "I was delighted to be able to invite Andrew to Harlow and see the wonderful work which is being done by Harlow Gymnastics Club to provide activities for local people.

"We were privileged to see a superb display by the club's members, all of whom obviously thoroughly enjoy their sport and get a great thrill out of being able to demonstrate what they have learnt from the dedicated and committed coaches. 

"The club is just one of the numerous local organisations which we have in Harlow which are committed to working with and for the local community."

by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com