WORCESTER'S MP is calling on the city's strong sporting scene to help influence the rest of the UK - saying it has a golden opportunity to drive the country forward.

The Government has decided to launch a major consultation on where the nation stands on its sporting offer - and what ministers can do to help.

The review, led by Sports Minister Tracey Crouch, will consider if new Government policy needs to be brought in to ensure it continues to thrive.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport wants members of the public and sports clubs or associations to get involved, telling decision-makers what needs to happen so their particular activity can flourish.

Since the turn of the century Worcester has benefited enormously from huge sporting investment, including Worcester Warriors reaching the top flight of English rugby for the first time, the redevelopment of New Road cricket ground and the glistening University Arena, the home of city basketball.

Robin Walker said the consultation was an ideal chance for the city's sporting scene to help drive future decision making.

"Worcester is a great sporting city and our city’s voice ought to be heard in such an important piece of work," he said.

"I want Worcester to be at the heart of the country's sporting revival and what better time to do it than in the year of the rugby World Cup and the year that Worcester launched plans for an international centre for accessible sports (at the University Arena).

"I cannot claim to be much of a sportsman myself but I realise that sport makes a huge contribution to the quality of life in Worcester.

"Just like thousands of constituents, watching sport here is one of the things that makes me proudest of Worcester."

The consultation asks people for their views on topics like how financially sustainable sport is to coaching, infrastructure, major sporting events, children's interest in it, professional sport and equality.

It runs until Friday, October 2 and can be viewed at gov.uk/government/consultations

by searching for sport.

Sports Minister Tracey Crouch said: "Sport has such a positive impact on people’s lives and I want to embed participation into this nation’s DNA.

"I want to make sure that the sports sector gives everybody - no matter who they are and what their ability - the chance to take part."