Mendip AC – The BeginningMendip AC was founded in July 2003. The needs of senior athletes in and around the Mendip region were adequately met by long-established clubs – from Weston in the West to Frome in the East. High-profile successes for British athletes had fuelled a resurgence in interest in athletics amongst juniors and while most athletics clubs had junior sections few could meet the demand. And so it was against this backdrop that the idea for a new ‘junior athletics focused’ club came about.
The inaugural training session for the club was held on 8th July 2003 at Elmhurst School – Street. 52 athletes attended that evening and the club had it’s first 27 members – Mendip AC was born!
For a more up to date overview of the Club try and find time to look at our draft club development plan.
Since the inauguration of the Club we had been looking to fill the post of an Honorary President but wanted a special person who would represent all that is good about Junior Athletics and following enquiries and discussions we had in early 2007 we were able to announce in March 2007 that Jason Gardener M.B.E had agreed to be our honorary president. It is worth waiting for the best!
Mendip AC – Athletics WelfareThere is an increasing awareness of the issues associated with Athletics Welfare and in particular concerns about the way children could be treated by adults who have temporary responsibility for them, whether by abuse or neglect.
Recent work undertaken on behalf of UK Athletics and AAA of England has resulted in policy and procedures in Athletics Welfare. As well as covering child protection these also cover the issues of sexual harassment and racism which are equally destructive.
Mendip AC take Athletics Welfare very seriously and implement the AAA of England policy to the best of its ability. In particular:
  • The club has a Welfare Officer, currently Emily Waring  who oversees all athletics welfare issues
  • All coaches, coaching assistants, officials, team managers and helpers are subject to comprehensive police checks
  • All coaches, coaching assistants and officials are registered with UK Athletics
  • Parent/carer consent forms are maintained for all junior athletes who train or compete with the club – these provide emergency contact information and notification of any special medical conditions for the athlete
WE ARE NORTH SOMERSET ATHLETIC CLUBEngland Athletics National Development Club of the Year 2011 & South West Club of the Year 2018, North Somerset AC successfully competes in the Avon, National Young Athletes and in the Gwent Cross Country League. Training sessions take place in Clevedon, Nailsea, Weston-super-Mare and Ashton Court.
Our mission is to deliver a professional and positive environment that provides opportunities for athletes of all abilities, ages and backgrounds to be the best they can within the sport of Athletics.  We aim to create a vibrant, safe and enjoyable experience for all our members and to encourage healthy active lifestyles.  More information about the missions and governance of the club can be found in our constitution .
The club welcomes anyone who wishes to get involved in the thrill of athletics weather as a competitor, helper, coach or supporter, please feel free to make contact at a training event.
North Somerset Athletic Club was set up in 2004, when a huge demand for athletics among young people in the area was recognised. The club has grown quickly and now has over 400 competing members from age 8 upwards. The club is supported by over 30 qualified coaches led by Head Coach Chris Millard. All coaches are UKA approved and the club is affiliated to UK Athletics. The club has full Clubmark status.
“North Somerset Athletics Club is a shining example of what can be achieved through enthusiasm,  dedication and hard work. I was inspired to hear about their vision and success and will be following their progress closely.”
Denise Lewis OBE