Newham welcomes the World

Councillors and young residents helped to raise to raise the flag that officially recognises London and Newham as hosts of the next summer Olympic Games.

Deputy Mayor of Newham, Cllr Christine Bowden, raised the special Olympic Handover flag at the Town Hall in East Ham.

She said: The eyes of the world are now turning to Newham as the main host borough for the 2012 Games. It is an exciting moment for us all.

Joining her on the steps of the Town Hall were Cllr Unmesh Desai, executive member for community intelligence; Cllr Richard Crawford, executive member for community forums; and Cllr Pat Sheekey, deputy executive member for the environment.

Newhams handover festivities continue at its four-day Under the Stars extravaganza that begins on Thursday August 28 in East Hams Central Park. The handover flag will be flown throughout the spectacular.

Sunday evenings classical music event will feature a special Newham Welcomes the World intermission. Olympic gold medallist Tessa Sanderson OBE is set to appear on stage with a host of sporting heroes and performers.

Mayor of Newham, Sir Robin Wales, said: The Games represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to raise the profile of the borough and inspire people to participate in sport and healthy lifestyles.

Residents were already excited about the 2012 Games, but the fact that Team GB has done so well out in Beijing has only increased the feeling of excitement and anticipation. The 2012 Games may seem far away, but it will be here before we know it!

www.newham.gov.uk