London 2012 Inspire Mark presentation
Published Thursday 24th February 11 in Council - news and information releases news
An innovative series of bike rides organised by Cycle Southend has won the prestigious London 2012 Inspire Mark.
The rides, called Gateway to the Games are supported by Southend-on-Sea's Legacy 2012.
They all start from different parts of Southend, and finish at Hadleigh Castle , the scene of the Olympic Mountain Biking events in August 2012.
They are among a small number of projects and events considered outstanding enough to contribute to the Games' lasting legacy, and have thereby won the special recognition of the Inspire Mark. This in turn gives the rides an even higher profile and more funding possibilities.
Last Sunday, 20th February, the Worshipful the Mayor of Southend, Councillor Ann Holland, received the award from Joseph Ballard, Inspire Programmer for 2012, in a ceremony at Southend Bandstand in Priory Park followed by the first of the cycle rides.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor Transport and Planning, Councillor Mark Flewitt says: "Congratulations to Cycle Southend for gaining this terrific achievement. We hope as many people as possible will join in with these most enjoyable rides.
"These are being led by a qualified cycle trainer, and there are a host of other plans being developed for participants to make the most of their destination when they reach Hadleigh Castle.
"This includes possibilities of nature talks and finding out about the mountain bike track."
The Inspire Programme is entirely new and something that no previous Olympic Games or Paralympic Games have done before.
Its aim is that everyone will be inspired to watch, join in and to take part in the spirit of the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games.
- Saturday 26th February - 1pm: Meeting point - Chalkwell Park . Mixed off and on-road (via Leigh Broadway, Belton Way , seawall path)
- Sunday 6th March -1pm: Meeting point - Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre, Garon Park . Mixed on and off road (via Prittlebrook, extended route through Belfairs/Thundersley)
- Saturday 12th March - 9am: Meeting point ReCycle Centre, Brunel Road , Eastwood. Mostly off-road (via Woods in Castle Point, down into Hadleigh)
- Sunday 20th March - 9am: Meeting point Blenheim Park. Mostly off road (via Castle Point Woods)
- More rides are due to be arranged during April.