MP joins basketball club to back grassroots sport in Bury North

Thursday, 30 October 2025 17:34

By David Murphy

Bury North MP James Frith took to the court with under-10s at Elton Basketball Club during a recent visit, praising the club’s grassroots spirit and its impact on local youth.

The MP’s visit saw him join in drills with the junior team, watching children practise their passing, shooting and teamwork at a regular training session hosted at Elton High School. Frith said he was “delighted” to take part and witness the commitment of both players and volunteers.

“It was a real pleasure to visit Elton Basketball Club,” Frith told Roch Valley Radio. “Watching the under-10s working on their skills and teamwork was really enjoyable. I even joined in part of the session! It’s clear how much care and commitment goes into helping young people develop their confidence and love of the sport.”

He also highlighted the leadership of club organisers James Sharples, Nick Ibberson and Kim Lander for creating a community-focused, inclusive environment for local families.

Founded with the aim of providing affordable, competitive basketball in the area, the club now fields teams from under-10s right through to senior level, with fixtures this season taking place across the region. These include:

Under 14 Boys – BNW U14 Boys Ribble League

Under 16 Girls – Northern Premier Division

Under 16 Boys – North West Conference I

Under 18 Men – North Conference III

Women’s Premiership Team – Senior Regional Competition

All home games are played at Elton High School Sports Hall, with the 2025–26 season fixtures running from October through to spring 2026.

The club welcomes new players of all experience levels and ages, from juniors to adults. Sessions are designed to encourage teamwork, boost confidence, and help develop a lifelong love of the sport.

Those interested in joining, attending matches, or supporting Elton Basketball Club can find more information through the Lancashire Spinners Basketball website. https://www.lancashirespinners.org/community/play-basketball/

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Officers targeted anti-social behaviour in Rochdale and beyond during Bonfire Night clampdown

More than 2,000 emergency calls fielded and 27 arrests made across Greater Manchester as GMP warns ‘we’ll be knocking on doors’
Teen stabbed in Rochdale Bonfire Night attack as police cordon off street

A 17-year-old boy was hospitalised with serious injuries after a stabbing in Rochdale on Bonfire Night, with police launching a full forensic investigation
Council leader’s column: Unity must prevail as we reject hatred and stand together in remembrance

Rochdale’s council leader has issued a powerful call for unity and remembrance, condemning hate-fuelled division following an antisemitic terror attack and controversial political protests in Heywood.
Reg Birch Community Garden and the Richard Bentley Smalley Memorial Hall, Middleton wins Britain in Bloom award on first attempt

Reg Birch Community Garden and Richard Bentley Smalley Memorial Hall recognised with top RHS awards in first-time Britain in Bloom entries.
Major road in Middleton closed as crews tackle phone mast fire and gas safety fears

A phone mast fire shut down a key road in Middleton this morning, with firefighters and police establishing a safety cordon amid concerns about potential gas risks.
Rochdale community garden earns top award in regional Britain in Bloom scheme

A local gardening project at Spotland Community Centre has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by North West judges, celebrating the efforts of volunteers and residents
Work begins on major housing scheme that will bring 81 new homes to Rochdale

A long-abandoned site near Rochdale railway station is finally being redeveloped thanks to £15 million in government funding
🚒 LIVE: We join Greater Manchester fire crews in Rochdale tonight for a ride-along

Live updates during the evening as we embed with GMFRS for a behind-the-scenes look at frontline fire service work during one of the busiest times of the year.
The school where phones are locked away

A scheme in which students lock their phones away at the start of the school day has had a ‘remarkable impact’, according to a headteacher.
Rochdale-born creative agency founder spotlighted in ‘extraordinary’ Greater Manchester business campaign

A Rochdale entrepreneur who turned her wellness-focused creative agency into a global brand builder has been recognised as one of Greater Manchester’s most inspiring business leaders.
Bury bows to GMCA pressure with £12k Cannes trip as taxpayers foot bill for global investor summit

Bury Council says it made a 'late decision' to attend controversial MIPIM property conference after Greater Manchester Combined Authority urged all 10 councils to take part, following backlash from the Daily Mails article.
Masked gang targets couple in terrifying early morning burglary in Littleborough

A man and woman were threatened by four masked men, one armed with a knife, during an aggravated burglary on Todmorden Road in Littleborough.