The Olympic Torch will enter Wales through Monmouthshire as part of its journey around the UK prior to the London Olympic Games in 2012 it was announced today (7th November 2011).
Monmouthshire County Council’s Chairman, Cllr Brian Hood MBE, said:
“I’m proud that the Olympic Torch will come into Wales through our beautiful county. It is a real honour that Monmouth will be the first place in Wales that the Torch will visit. We have always seen Monmouthshire as the Gateway to Wales, and next year it certainly will be. We understand that the flame will enter Wales at Monmouth on the morning of the 25th of May and then go on through Raglan and Abergavenny.”
He continued:
“The eyes of the world will be on Monmouthshire that day. But primarily, we see this as an event for all of our communities. The flame marks the countdown to the start of the London Olympics. We want to use the focus and symbolism of the Games as a springboard to encourage all of the people in the County, young and old, to take up and try out activities. ”
Monmouthshire will host a range of events and promotions both sporting and cultural leading up to and after the Olympics themselves. These include
- Working closely with schools through the Olympics GET SET programme
- Encouraging people to try a new or existing activity
- Increasing attendance at leisure centres ,sports and activity clubs
This is a great opportunity to THINK ACTIVE and we would encourage anyone to come up with their own event or idea. We expect to work with all of our partners and, in particular our town and community councils. There are already some key events planned and nearer the date we will be providing a calendar of activities throughout the county. It’s certainly worth repeating that it is an honour to have the Olympic flame in Monmouthshire and we will be delighted to celebrate its arrival.
