With figures released yesterday showing that more than 10 million people have been involved in an Inspire project, the event is set to demonstrate the change that the initiative is creating around the UK.
The innovative London 2012 Inspire programme was launched four years ago and is an Olympic and Paralympic first, recognising projects inspired by the Games. A total of 2,713 non-commercial projects have been awarded the Inspire mark for inspiring young people and helping to bring the spirit of the Games into communities across the UK.
'A lasting change'
Highlights of UK Inspire Day celebrations include a special appearance from Olympic gold medallist Jonathan Edwards at Media City in Manchester followed by daring displays from GymFest at the London 2012 Live Site. A photography exhibition of Inspire projects is on display at London's City Hall to highlight how initiatives are creating a real legacy across the capital.
Elsewhere, Ramblers Scotland are launching their national challenge on the streets of Glasgow, while The Wellcome Trust’s ‘In the Zone’ sports science project at the Balmoral Show in Belfast lets visitors explore how their bodies work during sport.
London 2012 Organising Committee Seb Coe said: ‘UK Inspire Day is just the start of a range of opportunities to showcase these fantastic projects taking place across the UK that are inspired by London 2012.
‘With 10 million people already joining in with these initiatives over the past four years and the fact that so many projects will continue after the Games, today is a demonstration that the Inspire programme is achieving its ambition to create real and lasting change across the UK.’
Celebrating at Live Sites
Activities are also taking place at London 2012 Live Sites across the UK today to showcase Inspire projects. Cardiff City Football Club’s disability sports project ‘Every Player Counts' is hosting football demonstrations in the Welsh capital, whilst Inspire projects in Plymouth are leading ‘have a go’ sessions in volleyball, table tennis and football.
Olympic Flame in the spotlight
Inspire projects have also been focusing on celebrating the arrival of the Olympic Flame in local communities, with the Torch Relay getting underway this weekend. ‘My Games, My Legacy’ will display a huge patchwork quilt of 30,000 Games-inspired pledges at the Curve Theatre in Leicester, while ‘Active Newcastle’ will be providing a series of sports taster sessions on the route in the North East.
Find out more about the Inspire programme
View a list of upcoming Inspire events
Read the full media release
