East could get 2012 Olympic boost

[richard]

The eastern region could benefit from the London Olympics

The opportunities for sport and business in the East of England from the Olympics in 2012 are to be highlighted at a conference this week.

The meeting in Newmarket, Suffolk, on Thursday will include former Olympic javelin champion Tess Sanderson.

The event, organised by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), will look at all aspects of the Olympics and Paralympics coming to London.

One possible benefit is that the area could be a base for competitor nations.

Richard Ellis, chair of EEDA, said: "The next seven years will see significant and lasting change for London as the capital prepares to stage the biggest sporting event in the world.

"However the impact of the Games will not just be felt in London, there will be a ripple effect which means regions such as the East of England have the chance to benefit from the biggest event to come to the UK for a generation.

'Benefit to schools'

"There are a variety of opportunities opening up for us all. Tourism will undoubtedly receive a boost as visitors come to the region to watch at our Olympic events and then see what else the East of England has to offer.

"While schools and sporting clubs will be able to pick up on the interest generated by the games.

"If we succeed, I believe we will be left with a legacy not just for economic growth but also a spirit of sporting endeavour which will remain with us for many years to come."

As well as Ms Sanderson, who is now vice chair of Sport England, other speakers include Giles Long, triple Paralympic gold medal-winning swimmer, and Jon Armstrong from the London Organising committee for the Olympic Games.

EEDA helps encourage economic development in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.


Source
BBC News