Lock Lane: A Lifesaving Grant

In the heart of Castleford, Lock Lane Sports Centre is a vital part of daily life. As one of the biggest amateur rugby league clubs in the country, they have a strong ethos of providing sport for all – with teams starting from under 7s. The centre is more than just a rugby club, it’s a place where the local community comes to get out the house, stay active and stay connected.

For many in the Five Towns of Wakefield, Lock Lane provides purpose, routine, and a safe space to socialise — especially for those who may otherwise feel isolated.

Lock Lane became a CRT Support member in 2022, joining a network of grassroots organisations working to improve health, wellbeing, and opportunity in coalfield communities. Since then, CRT has worked closely with the centre to deliver two successful weekly programmes:

• CRT Engage – Active for Life session, supporting local people to reintroduce gentle, consistent movement into their lives.
• CRT Game On – Walking Football session, which combines fitness, fun, and friendship for older participants.

These sessions are more than exercise. For many who attend, they’re an anchor — something to look forward to every week.

Earlier this year, one of those sessions highlighted just how critical the right support can be for organisations like Lock Lane.

During a CRT Game On Walking Football session, a participant fell ill in the sports hall and went into cardiac arrest. Fortunately, a rented defibrillator was on site to be used immediately — saving his life.

The incident prompted urgent action. Lock Lane approached CRT for support to purchase a permanent, on-site defibrillator, so they would never again be reliant on temporary or external provision in an emergency.

Recognising the seriousness of the request, CRT awarded a £1,500 grant to fund the defibrillator in full — ensuring life-saving equipment is now available at all times for everyone using the facility.

“The grant from CRT is literally a lifesaver,” said Gareth Athorn, Manager at Lock Lane.

This is what CRT Support is all about – helping community organisations not only grow, but responding to the real needs of the people they serve.

The relationship between CRT and Lock Lane is built on shared values: accessibility, community-first thinking, and a deep understanding of what local people need. From delivering meaningful health programmes to ensuring vital emergency infrastructure, CRT is proud to stand alongside Lock Lane as they continue to serve Castleford and the wider Five Towns.

Because a thriving community needs places like Lock Lane.

Watch the video to hear more about CRT Support member Lock Lane and their recent grant.

If you would like to find out more about our programmes and our membership, visit here.