Meet Active Sussex trustee Bev Banton

Here, she talks about why she decided to get involved in Active Sussex and her love of women’s sport and Fantasy Football.

Why did you want to become involved with Active Sussex?

Sports and physical activity are a really central theme running through all the strands of my life, and as a young person, I experienced first-hand the barriers for girls wanting to take part in traditionally male sporting activities.

My immediate family also includes members with disabilities, and that has definitely shaped my perspective on the importance of access to movement-based activities for people with physical and learning disabilities.

Getting involved with ActiveSussex is a truly wonderful opportunity to contribute to the local community in a meaningful way within an area aligned to my personal values and aspirations.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I enjoy walking, reading, or rather listening to audiobooks, and proactively supporting women’s sport. I follow the Women’s Super League (football) and support English Women’s Cricket and the Oval Invincibles (Cricket). I also spend a fair amount of time managing my fantasy football team for the men’s football premier league; the time spent does not equate to a level of success. I also enjoy yoga and step aerobics.

What does a typical weekend look like for you?

A longer than usual at-home yoga session, a long walk along the beach, lunch or brunch with friends and family, watching my grandson’s swimming lessons, catching a televised or attending a football/ cricket game or two, and patiently waiting for the NFL to start in September. If I’m lucky, I may sneak in attending a live music or art show.

Do you have any hobbies?

I enjoy gardening and small scale DIY and up-cycling projects.