Blackpool to feature in Olympic celebrations

[Pete]

BLACKPOOL's famous mirrorball will be the focus of a spectacular stunt to celebrate the Olympic Games in 2012.
A resort-wide Olympiad will take place later this month across the country, featuring a whole host of cultural and sporting festivities, in a similar vain to the opening ceremonies of the Games.

An athlete will perform a stunt on top of the mirrorball at 20.00 hours for 12 minutes, to fit in with the date of the London Games.

The world fireworks championships taking place in the resort through this month will have an Olympic theme that weekend - including the iconic Olympic rings.

The display will be lit by a ceremonial torch, carried from the mirrorball by local Games hopefuls.

Coun Tony Williams, Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities, said: "Blackpool is proud to be one of the towns and cities across the country that will be joining in the massive celebrations for the Olympic games.

"The chance to celebrate with London as the run up to the 2012 games begins was one we could not miss and we plan to do it in true Blackpool style with fun for all the family and an added touch of entertainment."

The council is also in talks with bosses at Blackpool Tower in a bid to get the iconic seafront landmark involved some way in the festivities.

Over that weekend, prices at council leisure facilities will be slashed to 1948 prices, to reflect the last time the Olympics were held in London.

Local residents will be able to take part in activities such as exercise classes for 6p and swimming and golf for 10p. There will also be some free taster sessions.

School sporting events will see top athletes given their own medals and gymnastic demonstrations, promenade walks and art exhibitions will all be part of the event.

Schoolchildren will also be asked to take part in a competition to design an Olympic flag, with the winner switching on the Blackpool illuminations at 20:12 hours to tie in with the theme.

Last month Blackpool got into the Olympic spirit with a special event in Stanley Park as Beijing said goodbye to the Games.

There were races, rock concerts and vintage car rallies and Mayor of Blackpool Coun Mary Smith raised the Olympic flag as the four year count-down to the London Games began.