On your marks… help the Winchester district prepare for 2012
With the launch of an exciting - if controversial - logo this month, the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London is starting to take shape.
So what better time to turn our attention to the Winchester district's preparations for the world's most exciting sporting event?
On Monday 25 June, members of the public are invited to a meeting to find out how they can be part of the action. Led by the Winchester District Sport and Physical Alliance (SPAA), it promises to be an inspiring occasion.
2012 Ambassador Danny Crates, a Paralympian gold medallist, will take the stage to share his vision of a successful Games. Key to his speech will be the importance of providing opportunities for everyone to get involved.
Commenting on this, SPAA Chairman Stuart Barlow of Sparsholt College said: "With childhood obesity ranking high on the list of national concerns, the Olympic build-up offers a perfect opportunity to establish new, healthy habits throughout the district. It's also a time to address the increasing shortage of volunteer officials, stewards and practical helpers of all kinds which can hold back the performance of local clubs."
The meeting will involve practical workshops to identify ideas and initiatives on a range of themes, from getting more volunteers into sport at a local level to organising events to celebrate the cultural diversity of the Games.
Winchester City Council's Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Sport, Cllr Patricia Stallard, added: "The 2012 games have given everyone a new enthusiasm for sport, and a real focus for getting things done. We believe that Winchester has a special contribution to make, bringing culture and sport together in our usual unique style. I am sure that this meeting will be full of people with creative and practical ideas and look forward to joining the discussions."
The meeting is open to individuals and businesses from across the Winchester District. It is free to attend - and a once in a lifetime opportunity. Book now as places are limited.
The event will take place on Monday 25 June from 7pm to 9.30pm at Westley Court, The Wessex Conference Centre, Sparsholt College. To book a place at the event contact Jo Smith on 01753 740074 or jo@promotepr.com or go to www.wdsp/spaa/events and click on 'Preparing Winchester for the Games'. Bookings are on a first come, first served basis.
Notes:
The build-up to the games will also help the SPAA's 'Developing active communities towards 2012 and beyond' strategy. The key objectives of this strategy are to:
- Increase the number of people who are physically active
- Increase the number of sports coaches, officials and volunteers
- Improve access to high quality sport and physical activity facilities
For more information about the Winchester and District SPAA visit www.wdsp.co.uk/spaa
For more information about the meeting and the speakers, including photo opportunities on the night, contact Jo Smith on 01753 740074 or jo@promotepr.com