23 July 2010

Northwest marks 2 year countdown to London 2012

• 204 Northwest businesses winning 275 Games-related contracts
• Teams from 17 countries already committed to train in the Northwest ahead of the Games
• 1.1 million people attending Cultural Olympiad events
• 92 projects and events granted the London 2012 Inspire mark, the most in the UK
• 1,339 schools registered on the London 2012 education programme, Get Set

The Northwest’s success in capitalising on the benefits of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games is set to be highlighted at the 4th annual Northwest 2012 conference, held today (23rd July 2010) to coincide with Open Weekend and the 2 year countdown to the world’s biggest sporting event.

The conference, held at Lancashire County Cricket Club’s brand new visitor facilities, will celebrate the region’s achievements in securing Games-related business contracts, attracting world-class teams for Pre Games Training Camps, encouraging people to take part in Cultural Olympiad events and activities, and getting Northwest schools involved in the excitement of the Games.

With Paralympic cyclist Jody Cundy on hand to talk about his unique and personal journey to sporting success, the day’s proceedings will start with a performance of ‘Cultural Conversation’, a striking carnival showcase involving 70 dancers and musicians from groundbreaking arts organisation Brouhaha. Awarded with the London 2012 Inspire mark, this will be performed in Liverpool on 24th July as part of the region’s Open Weekend celebrations.

The conference will begin with Angela Salt, London 2012 Head of Nations & Regions, who will outline the vision for an inspirational Games.

Angela Salt said:

“I’ve been privileged enough to be part of the Northwest’s ‘London 2012 experience’ on a number of occasions and each time, I’ve been thrilled to see the effect it’s having on everyone from young people and aspiring athletes to businesses and organisations.

“Our bid promised a Games for everyone, and from seeing this in action in the Northwest I’m even more convinced that the whole of the UK is becoming more inspired and involved.”

On behalf of the Northwest, Peter Hensman (Board member at the Northwest Regional Development Agency) and Andy Worthington (Chair of the Northwest Steering Group for the 2012 Games) will then highlight the region’s journey so far on the road to London 2012.

Outlining the significant progress made by the Northwest over the past 12 months, Peter Hensman said:

“In the last year alone, the Northwest has seen major success when it comes to benefiting from, and contributing towards, London 2012 - from hosting the UK’s first Pre Games Training Camps and having the highest number of projects receiving the Inspire mark, to our businesses playing such a vital role in building the Games venues themselves.

“The time to plan and deliver is now. With the region’s ongoing support and passion, we can continue to make the most of this once-in-a lifetime opportunity.”

Highlighting the future opportunities for the region, Andy Worthington said:

“We’ve always said that the most important thing about the Games was that the Northwest played a full part – not only in terms of contributing to its delivery but also ensuring a lasting legacy for the region. It’s been a busy year of achievements for us, and we’ll be working hard to make sure this continues. Looking at opportunities around the Torch Relay, planning the Olympic football event at Old Trafford and ensuring our strong volunteering expertise helps the Games run smoothly and successfully, will be important areas for the region to capitalise on.”

The conference will also provide an opportunity to launch the Northwest 2012 Health & Wellbeing Legacy Framework. Mike Farrar (National Health Champion for Sport & Physical Activity) will outline how the region will use the Games to narrow the gap in health inequalities, promote physical activity and inspire the next generation to choose an active and healthy lifestyle. Meanwhile, London 2012 Marketing services provider McCann Manchester will explain how they have played a key part in the story of Wenlock and Mandeville, the London 2012 mascots.

This year also sees the introduction of the Be Inspired Awards, giving recognition to key people in the region who have played a major part in bringing the Games to life.

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