A Big Olympic and Paralympic Thank You

The recent meeting of the Full Council was the first since the conclusion of both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. In light of the remarkable summer of sport we all enjoyed, and in particular the unique contribution made by Bedford Borough throughout, I wanted to take the opportunity to say a special thank you to all those locally who, in their different ways, helped make it such a special experience for all.

I am delighted that my motion expressing thanks and congratulations to so many received unanimous backing from all Councillors present, with a number of people speaking warmly of the efforts made by volunteers, athletes and many more.

Also on the night, my request for Etienne Stott to be considered for the award of Honorary Freedom of the Borough, the highest honour the Council can give, reached the Full Council, and also received unanimous backing. I will write about Etienne and how richly deserving he is of this honour on here separately, but in the meantime, here's the full text of the Olympic and Paralympic 'thank you' motion:

"This Council:

1) Notes the huge enthusiasm and enjoyment generated across the country by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

2) Recognises the major contribution to these unique occasions made by Bedford Borough and very many of its current and former residents.

3) Thanks all of the large numbers of local residents and organisations who helped enable Bedford Borough to host 14 different Olympic and Paralympic teams for Pre-Games Training Camps. Particular thanks are extended to Howard Darbon, the volunteer Coordinator, Pre Games Training Camps in Bedford, for his tireless work in attracting the teams and ensuring a successful stay for both the teams and the many members of the community with whom they engaged.

4) Congratulates each of the Torchbearers on their role and richly-deserved recognition

5) Thanks all of the large number of the Borough's Olympic and Paralympic Games Makers and other volunteers, for their crucial role in supporting such overwhelmingly successful games. Council also thanks the volunteers at the Pre Games Training Camps and at local Olympic and Paralympic-related events, including the Torch Relay and Olympic Live Site.

6) Congratulates all of the Borough's Olympians and Paralympians who have, through their inspirational performances this summer, helped to continue and to strengthen the Borough's proud sporting tradition. Special congratulations are extended to bronze medal winner Phelan Hill and gold medallist Etienne Stott.

7) Recognises the opportunity presented by the success of the games to encourage more people to enjoy sports and physical activity in general, both at the Borough's wide range of public sports facilities and with the Borough's high quality, diverse array of overwhelmingly volunteer-run sports clubs."