"Sport helping to meet legacy aims" says David Cameron

David Cameron was at Loughborough University yesterday to make a speech on how the Olympic and Paralympic Games can fulfil the organisers’ promise to deliver a wide-ranging legacy from the events.

In his speech, Mr Cameron cited the recent poll conducted by ComRes, which suggested that the Olympics is already inspiring the government’s priority target group to do more sport.

The poll reports that 26% of 18–34 year-olds agreed or strongly agreed with the statement that “I’m inspired to play more sport at the moment because of the London 2012 Olympics”.

The figures provide evidence that, even in difficult economic circumstances, the Games are helping to persuade this difficult-to-reach audience to become more active.

Andy Reed OBE, Sport and Recreation Alliance chair, says that the work governing bodies have put into creating a legacy are beginning to come good.

“With the Olympics around the corner, it is great to see the Government remains focused on a legacy of upgrading sports facilities and recruiting young sports leaders. Together with the efforts of sports governing bodies, it’s starting to pay off.

"New grassroots campaigns for 2012 such as Go Canoeing and British Gymnastics I am BG are providing the opportunity for youngsters to try new sports and get involved. Now is the time to capitalise on the success of the Olympics and make sure the legacy lasts.”

If you would like more information on the speech or advice on how to support or initiate grassroots campaigns, email the Sport and Recreation Alliance.