Pastor Steven Richards, Homerton Baptist Church24 April 2009
Last week Homerton Baptist Church and other churches in the five Host Boroughs (Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest and Greenwich) met at Homerton to hear from representatives of the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), Hackney's 2012 team and the
We saw a presentation of how the building work is developing, much of which is well ahead of schedule. This was enhanced with a video showing much of the work taking place. We also heard about the many opportunities there are between now and the Games. It was clear that the Games are not just a single event for 2012 but are a means to enthuse and motivate local communities to be fully involved leading up to 2012 and beyond. We then looked towards the future at the plans for after the Games. All were impressed with the size of the project and were much encouraged with what the legacy will bring to local people. As refreshments were taken after the meeting there were a number of animated conversations and a very real sense of positive optimism as we look forward to 2012 and beyond. One comment we received was: 'It was a very good meeting. I have learnt so many things to do with the London 2012 Games, on what they are doing and what they are going to do in the future. They have an education programme for kids in London; they are also doing a volunteering programme. I would like to say if you get the chance to go to one of their meetings then go. You will learn a lot.' Andrea age 11
