A national campaign aimed at getting young people into sport has been launched at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre.
The programme, called ‘Join in’, is aimed to inspire local people to participate in sport and club activities, and to celebrate the wealth of culture in Durham.
With just 20 weeks until the Olympic Torch Relay enters the county, Durham County Council launched its London 2012 legacy programme before the Durham Wildcats match at the Leisure Centre at the weekend, supported by a host of talented sportsmen and women.
‘Join in…’ which has been awarded LOCOG’s Inspire mark, will run for 20 weeks up to the Olympic Flame’s arrival, and then for 12 weeks afterwards – hence the 2012 link.
Just before ‘tip-off’ at the BBL league match on Saturday, gifted and talented youngsters from across the county joined County Durham Sport Award winners for 2011 and home grown Wildcats talent to mark the start of the programme which aims to:
• Increase participation in sporting and cultural events and activities
• Provide a lasting legacy post the 2012 Games
• Showcase County Durham as a place to live, love and visit
• Encourage major sporting events of regional, national and world importance
• Encourage and celebrate excellence in the county
• Celebrating Olympic values through international links and shared learning
Leader of the council, Cllr Simon Henig, said: “I know that many thousands of residents will be inspired by the Olympic Flame as it passes through at least 20 of our towns and villages this June.
“We want to capture that moment in history and use it to provide a lasting legacy for our younger residents in particular.
“London 2012 offers us a once in a lifetime opportunity to help our residents to ‘Join in…’ something new.
“Our programme links into what is already on offer in our thriving communities to ensure that new interests or activities can continue. I hope it will prove life-changing for some and enjoyable for all.”
Seb Coe, Chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games said: “‘Join in…’ is encouraging young people in County Durham to fulfil their potential.
“I am proud that with the help of partners such as Durham County Council we are delivering our vision to use the power of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games to boost participation in the county.”
Speaking at the launch event Paralympics swimming hopeful, Lyndon Longhorne, said: “I’m happy to support ‘Join in… 2012’.
“It’s a great way to encourage people to take part in sport or other activities in whatever way they can and I hope that I can help inspire others to have a go at one, or more, of the many activities taking place.”
Click here to find out more about ‘Join in’
PICTURED
(L – R) Back: Cllr Maria Plews/Cabinet member for leisure, libraries and lifelong learning, Andrew Kitchen, Andrew Elliott, Cllr Simon Henig/Leader Durham County Council, Paul Elderkin, Rachel Burgess, Nathan Ord, Rowen Rochester, Rachel Davies
Front: Leah Rockett, Claudia Barkes (South Durham Gymnastics Club), Lyndon Longhorne (Paralynpian swimming hopeful), Jade Armstrong, Amy Tinkler (South Durham Gymnastics Club) and Sophie Allen (tumbling gymnast)
