Lewisham celebrates Olympic Handover

27 August 2008

Lewisham celebrated the moment when London became the official Olympic Games Host City on Sunday 24 August.

The iconic London Olympic Handover Flag was raised by Mayor of Lewisham, Sir Steve Bullock, in Cornmill Gardens at exactly 2.30pm along with other London boroughs and regions around the UK.

Sir Steve said: “What a fantastic day and what a fantastic beginning to what promises to be a very exciting and challenging next 4 years.

“Britain has done brilliantly in this year’s Olympics in Beijing and I’m proud to say that Lewisham has made a valuable contribution to the winning team by way of Tasha Danvers who won a Bronze Medal in the 400 metre hurdles. Today we’re flying the flag not only for London but for Lewisham too!

“I hope that everyone in the borough will enter into the full spirit of the Olympics and set themselves a goal to exercise more. Exercise has so many benefits and can really improve the quality of life. In Lewisham we’re working towards developing some excellent sport and leisure facilities for everyone to enjoy and I hope people will take full advantage of them.”

“In particular, my goal is to help Lewisham’s young people achieve their own goals and levels of sporting excellence. Of course, the majority will not go on to reach Olympic status but participating in sport can have great benefits in boosting personal confidence. This in itself helps them in so many other ways and improves their work and life chances.”

Also speaking at the Handover was 16-year-old Rebecca Harding who has been talent scouted to compete in the 2012 Paralympics in both the swimming and wheelchair racing events. Rebecca said: “Having been involved in all kinds of sports for many years, I’m really excited about having the opportunity to take part in the Paralympics. There are going to be so many facilities – I can’t wait. It’s going to be fantastic!”

 

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