Olympic long jump champion Greg Rutherford becomes patron of a very aptly-named good cause

Leap promotes sport and physical activity to improve the health and wellbeing of residents in Milton Keynes and Bucks.

.Greg said: “I’ve found out first-hand the benefits of being involved in sport and activity but everyone doesn’t have to go on to become an Olympic Champion. Sport and activity enables you to stay fit, be around different people, learn new perspectives on life, build confidence and improve general well-being, So we need to encourage people to experience that for themselves.”

He added: “I’m a huge advocate, especially with children, that we encourage them to get outside and enjoy their natural surroundings. I’m desperate to ensure my kids enjoy being active and being outdoors. Through clubs, sport, and being active there are so many social and important moral skills that you develop, that benefit you in wider life.”

Greg, from Bletchley, became a household name when he won Gold at the London 2012 Olympics with a winning jump of 8m 31cm.

His victory made him the fifth British athlete to hold Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth titles simultaneously, joining the ranks of Daley Thompson, Jonathan Edwards, Sally Gunnell and Linford Christie.

His journey began years previously at Marshall Milton Keynes Athletic Club, where he took his first leap into the long jump pit in 1999.

This weeks Greg returned to the club to unveil a plaque celebrating his famous medal winning jump.

Club chair Mick Bromilow said:“It was wonderful to welcome Greg back to the club... he has been a member throughout his athletics career. The plaque will serve as a permanent reminder of Greg's historic achievements and prove inspiring for future athletes who train with the club.”

Meanwhile Leap is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Greg said: “I’m looking forward to working with Leap to help their cause of improving the lives of local residents by encouraging people to get outside and active.”

Sue Imbriano, chair of the Leap Board said: “We are honoured and delighted that Greg Rutherford MBE has agreed to become the patron of Leap. As the lead organisation for promoting sport and physical activity across Milton Keynes and Buckinghamshire to have one of the most accomplished athletes in the world become our patron is a real honour."

She added: “The obvious connection, not to mention the play on words, for Greg to become the figurehead of a sports body called Leap was too good an opportunity to miss, especially as it’s a leap year. As the social enterprise responsible for improving people’s lives through physical activity and sport, our values are very close to Greg’s and we look forward to a number of future collaborations with him.”

For more information on Leap’s work visit www.leapwithus.org.uk