After a Fantastic, Thrilling Olympic Games, Let's Make 'Legacy' Really Mean Something

With the thrilling, inspiring action from the Olympics now over and the Paralympics to come, it's a good time to reflect on Bedford Borough's considerable contribution to both events, and to consider how we can all help ensure that that word 'legacy' really means something for current and future generations here in Bedford Borough. This was the subject of my column in this week's Times and Citizen newspaper, and if you've not seen it, I have reproduced it below:

The thrilling, inspiring action from the Olympic Games has given us so much to be proud of both as a country and, of course, as a Borough. For Bedford Borough's contribution has been significant.

We saw huge crowds come out in rotten weather on a Sunday morning to cheer on the torchbearers in Bedford and Cotton End. People also came out in numbers to enjoy the Olympic action on the big screen atBedford's official Olympic 'Livesite', with taster sessions for children through the week. And as for our Olympians, Etienne Stott's Gold and Phelan Hill's Bronze were magnificent achievements, with the former representing a proud moment forBedford's Viking Kayak Club. All of the competitors hailing from Bedford Borough or with links here did us proud, and helped to strengthen the Borough's fine sporting tradition and Olympic pedigree. Making the Borough proud is also exactly what the many volunteer 'Games Makers' from our area have done.

We hosted the Maldives Olympic Squad, of course, and currently have well over 100 athletes and coaches preparing here inBedfordfor the upcoming Paralympics.

Thoughts are already turning to that word 'legacy', and if it is to really mean something it must be about turning the enthusiasm we have shared for the games into an increase in the number of people taking part in and enjoying sport, especially young people. Here in Bedford Borough we have facilities to rival any area of a similar size, including several public swimming pools, leisure centres and the athletics stadium. We also have fantastic parks and open spaces, ideal for a range of sporting activities.

If you're feeling inspired, or have children interested in trying something new, I cannot shout loudly enough about the Borough's huge range of sports clubs, run overwhelmingly by enthusiastic, dedicated and skilled volunteers. From martial arts to modern dance, there are numerous opportunities to get involved, whether you're after tough competition or some regular exercise and the chance to meet new people. If you're not sure what's on offer locally, the Council's Sports Development Team can help point you in the right direction.

It's been a fantastic sporting summer so far. I look forward to a successful, enjoyable sporting future ahead here in Bedford Borough.