WINDSOR, Slough, Eton & Hounslow (WSEH) Athletics Club have been warned they are in a desperate need for coaches and officials to keep them at the pinnacle of the sport.

WSEH recently celebrated one of its most successful seasons ever.

In 2015, the club were once again national champions in the UK Athletics Upper League. More success followed in the Southern Men’s and Women’s Leagues, the Southern UK Upper League, plus the Alder Valley Girls League title.

WSEH also had six of its athletes selected for the World Championships in Beijing where Shelayna Oskan-Clarke was the surprise package.

In her first senior international event, she finished fifth in the final of the 800m.

But, club secretary Dennis Daly insists new blood must be found for WSEH to remain among the elite clubs in the country.

In a report to the club’s annual general meeting, Daly said: “There is a worrying trend that needs to be addressed in that some coaches and athletes are not supporting club events, putting personal prestige above club loyalty.

“Club status is all important if we are to attract any sponsorship offers.

“In spite of our successes this summer the club is still desperately short of officials and coaches. Much of this malaise is brought about by the out of touch bureaucracy in our governing bodies.

“The EA Registration fee is now being used as a tool to prevent athletes from competing rather than encouraging participation.

“Another example is the cost and length of coaching courses. Clubs are currently being lobbied to support a coaching course in Bracknell spread over two weekends plus an assessment day at a cost of £420.

“Is is any wonder that last year’s similar course was cancelled through lack of uptake.

“Lessons need to be learned!

“Despite these burdens from above, WSEH continued to succeed which is a credit to those coaches, officials and officers that drive and manage the club.

“They are a diminishing band however and new blood is urgently required in the club is to maintain its present status of one of the top clubs in the UK.”

If you are able to help please contact Dennis Daly on 01753 686169.