18th May 2022

(LTR) Beth Munro, Andy Burnham, Joe Lane and Amy Truesdale.

GB Taekwondo fighters preparing for the European Championships in Manchester later this month received a final ‘good luck’ message from the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham.

More than 400 of the continent’s top athletes will compete at the Regional Arena, Sportcity between May 19-22.

During his visit on Monday (May 9), Andy watched the GB squad training including world champions, Bradly Sinden, double Olympic gold medallist Jade Jones and Bianca Walkden.

He also spoke with members of the GB Taekwondo Paralympic squad. This will be the first major tournament where the Paralympic programme is integrated into the Championships.

The former Labour MP then met with one of the country’s rising stars, Caden Cunningham, already a three-time medallist this year.

A keen sports fan, Andy said: “This is my first visit to the National Taekwondo Centre and it is easy to see why Team GB has enjoyed so much success.

“It is a superb training facility with the benefit that it is also available for use by Manchester residents.

“Mancunians love their sport and I know they will get behind our athletes and cheer them on at the European Championships.

“I wish all the athletes the best of luck and hopefully their hard work and dedication will pay off at the championships.”

Paul Buxton, chief executive officer of GB Taekwondo, said: “Our athletes know they are fortunate to able to train in one of the best Taekwondo centres in the world. We have found a home in East Manchester and are glad to play a part in bringing the inspiration of World Class sport to the city.

“Our whole team are proud to welcome visitors to the centre including local schools, community clubs, international athletes, and leaders like Andy Burnham. We appreciated Andy Burnham taking time to visit the Centre and wishing the athletes well ahead of the European Championships.”