Worthy event to leave Olympic legacy

A torch bearer from Bristol inspired by London 2012 has decided to organise a mammoth two-day Community Games so others can enjoy the magic of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mum-of-two and Lloyds TSB branch manager Sharon Worthy was overwhelmed by her own Olympic moment, carrying the torch in Combe Martin in North Devon, she’s decided to organise an event in her home town to create a lasting legacy of the Games in the area.

The Portbury Village Community Games is being held on Saturday and Sunday (September 8 and 9) at Portbury Recreational Field from 10am to 4pm.

Sharon, aged 39, was nominated to carry the torch because of her contribution to community life.

She was triumphant in helping organise the erection of a playground in a local park in just three months. And was successful in organising a royal wedding party, for the community, with hundreds turning out for the event.

Now she wants to bring the community together once more, this time through the nation-wide initiative, Community Games. And, she’s pledged if it’s a success next Saturday and Sunday she’ll run it annually.

She said:

“I am running the event to carry on the legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic Games by getting people together through sports and cultural activities.

We will be offering 25 different sports for people to try on the day and we’ve even contacted a few Paralympic sports clubs to see if they can come along also.

When I carried the torch through Combe Martin I was overwhelmed with pride, it was a very inspirational day. I want to ensure people in the area are inspired by the Games now and in the future.

There is a great sense of community spirit in Portbury with lots of events happening regularly. I feel very fortunate that there are so many people in the community who are always willing to volunteer and help out to make events like the Community Games such a success – it just wouldn’t be possible without their help.”

Sharon admitted she doesn’t get chance to catch a breath, juggling home and work life and organising a Community Games, but said she wouldn’t have it any other way.

There have been a number of Community Games organised locally. Steve Nelson, Chief Executive Officer of the West of England Sport Trust (Westport), said they have enabled people in the town and county to embrace the Olympics.

He said:

“We have been overwhelmed by the success of Community Games in the area. These events have been organised by volunteers, like Sharon, who have put their time and dedication in to these community sporting and cultural events.

I believe that they have not only helped create an lasting Olympic legacy in the area but they have also helped bring families and communities back together again, as well as encouraging more people to take up sport in this special Olympic year.”


 

Worthy event to leave Olympic legacy