A former England rugby star has joined a local Community Interest Company (CIC) as its ambassador.
Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Clark MBE, England Women’s second most capped player in history, has joined forces with Barnes Active CIC who focus on enhancing the physical and mental health of disabled people in the Borough.
Through organised projects, inclusive group activities and bespoke programmes, Barnes Active CIC aim to ensure that those who are disadvantaged by disabilities can access movement and exercise within their local community.
And they now have one of Women’s rugby most famous names to aid them in their journey.
“As someone who has ADHD and who is neurodivergent, I think it’s brilliant that there is a gym, and properly trained coaches, who can support that on a one-to-one basis”, said Rocky.
As a charity ambassador, Rocky will be helping to raise awareness of the organisation within the local community, along with advocating for the CIC’s initiatives, such as ‘Sponsor a Teen’.
Rocky’s list of achievements in the world of rugby union include a World Cup title in 2014, eight Six Nations championships, as well as still being the world’s most capped women’s front row in history with 137 England caps.
Also inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2025, Rocky’s status as a rugby legend is secured, but she is now hoping to use her experience to help disabled people access fitness and exercise spaces in Bedford.
“We are so pleased that Rocky has joined us as an Ambassador”, said Laura Barnes, one of five directors at Barnes Active CIC.
“Her own experiences of being neurodivergent and her sporting achievements are a massive inspiration to our members.
“We hope this is just the start of a brilliant partnership that can expand the CIC’s reach and drum up further community support for what we are doing”.
Readers can find out more about Barnes Active CIC here.
Transparency: Bedford Independent’s Sport Editor, Tom Carr is a relation of Laura Barnes.
