Loughborough charity announces new Royal Patron

The Countess of Wessex has agreed to act as Royal Patron for a Midlands sports charity which helps people who are wheelchair-bound play competitive sports, it has been announced.

Countess Sophie became a fan of the sport after watching it at the Paralympics last year, and now wants to work to help promote Loughborough-based British Wheelchair Basketball.

BWB chairman Malcolm Tarkenter said: “We are very honoured that The Countess of Wessex has decided to become our Patron and give us her support.

“It is fantastic news for the sport and it will certainly help to maintain the continued legacy from London 2012 encouraging more people to become involved with the sport not only playing but volunteering, coaching and spectating.”