South West

South West England Director for the 2012 Games, Guy Lavender

‘We want to make sure that the benefits of the London 2012 Games extend well into the future in the South West. We are committed to putting in place real programmes and projects that will inspire a generation and change lives so that everyone can share in the excitement, passion and power of the Games.

‘We have a team based approach that is already paying dividends and the hosting of the sailing events for the 2012 Games on our World Heritage Coast means that we can really capitalise on our regional strengths and benefit our communities.

‘Coupled with the support and energy of tenacious and talented individuals across the region we will win gold in every flame.’

Achieving our vision

We have five key ‘strategic flames’ for achieving our vision:

• Business opportunity: There are more than 75,000 contracts worth more than £6 billion available across every aspect of the 2012 Games. Companies of all sizes, across a diverse range of sectors can benefit. Our proximity to London and reputation for business excellence makes the South West a key source for contract winners.
  
  We are working closely with Business Link to help local companies find out about opportunities and ensure they are in the best shape to compete. For example, tourism is one of our largest industries. Preparation to win visitors to the region before, during and after the 2012 Games will be key for the region’s economy.
  
  
• Sporting opportunity: The South West has a fantastic sporting pedigree. It is home to a multitude of elite athletes, emerging talent and some of the greatest sporting venues and international events in the UK.  We are working with our athletes to help them reach their full potential and inspire others. The 2012 Games will motivate thousands of people, building on our existing sporting culture in the region. We aim to achieve the highest sport and recreational participation rates in the UK by supporting an ongoing festival of sport across the region.
  
  
• Tourism and regional image: The South West is the jewel in the crown of the UK’s tourism industry, attracting over 26 million visitors each year. The London 2012 Games will provide a global showcase for the region’s spectacular scenery and stunning destinations.  We will enhance our tourism offer to overseas and domestic visitors to make our region the first choice to visit. 
  
  
• Cultural celebration: Culture is at the heart of the 2012 Games. By widening the experience beyond sport, we enable whole communities to share in the magic of hosting the Games. We are supporting a full programme of cultural events across the region to generate excitement in the build up to the Games. This is an opportunity to unlock the creative potential in all of us. 
   
• Community engagement: The London 2012 Games represent the most significant opportunity in our lifetime to build on the strengths of our region and inspire young and old alike. We are actively supporting the development and ongoing improvement of our communities through inspiration and investment in the 2012 Games. This is positively impacting on the regional opportunities in education, skills, services, environment and employment.

Contact information

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