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Around 40 young people have taken part in sporting events to celebrate the presence of the Olympic Torch in Northumberland. They form part of a series of activities organised by Northumberland County Council aimed at involving young people in Olympic celebrations.
The main event was ‘My Life My Sport,’ which took place on 16 June and involved a cycle relay at Kielder Water & Forest Park. The young people operated in small groups passing a Northumberland flag between them for a distance of 26 miles around the Lakeside Way, the trail that encircles Kielder Water.
Ashley Brown, senior area youth worker, Northumberland County Council’s youth service said:
“It was a joy to see young people from across Northumberland come together to celebrate the Olympic Torch passing through the county. Despite heavy rain the young people remained positive and were determined to get the Northumberland flag around northern Europe’s biggest man-made lake, Kielder Water. They should be very proud of their achievements and I am delighted so many young people were involved.”
‘My Life My Sport’ is a London 2012 Inspire project that aims to provide young people with sporting opportunities. Northumberland County Council aims to bring different services together, to demonstrate the positive impact young people can have on the county when given opportunities.
Cllr Lesley Rickerby, Northumberland County Council’s executive member for children and young people said:
“It’s fantastic so see our young people being given an opportunity to show what they can contribute. Northumberland’s Olympic legacy is being shaped by people of all ages and will be of benefit to all, enabling people to experience different activities. We’re very proud that our young people flew the flag for the county, and would encourage others to get involved so please visit our website for details of more events.”
The participants came from a number of different organisations including Northumberland County Council’s youth service, and the children’s support team. Young people from all services took part despite the bad weather. Activities included kayaking, high rope walking, and king swing.
Philippa Clark, from Kielder Water & Forest Park added:
“We were delighted to play host to the sporting events – at over 250 square miles the Park is the perfect playground for outdoor activity. Walkers, runners, cyclists and wheelchair users can all use the Lakeside Way as it’s a multi user trail. We’re delighted everyone enjoyed themselves and hopefully the stunning scenery will inspire them to return.”
All outdoor events were led by the Calvert Trust Kielder and Beck’s Training who are Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) approved.
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