International Children's Games countdown hits the streets

Nov 25 2009 by Robert Mitchell, Wishaw Press

ROAD all about it – signs promoting the Lanarkshire 2011 International Children’s Games have gone up all across the county.

To highlight the Games coming to Lanarkshire, more than 80 road signs have been erected across the region’s boundaries to raise public awareness of the biggest sporting event ever to be held here.

North and South Lanarkshire councils say they are dedicated to managing an event that will showcase Lanarkshire to the watching world and leave a lasting sporting legacy for young people throughout the area.

Councillor Michael McCann, co-chair of the Lanarkshire 2011 organising committee and depute leader of South Lanarkshire Council, was on hand to see the final sign being installed at the B766 Carmunnock bypass.

He said: “Hosting the International Children’s Games in 2011 gives Lanarkshire the perfect opportunity to showcase our strengths and talents to a global audience.

“Between now and the Games we want as many people as possible to have an awareness of the Games and the boundary signs will be another step in enabling us to reach a great number of people.

“It’s vital we use every opportunity to spread the word about the Games and the legacy they will leave for young people throughout Lanarkshire for years to come.

“We have signs from Rutherglen to Clydesdale as part of our campaign to generate as much awareness and excitement about the Games as possible.

“We want the legacy of the Games to act as an inspiration to young people to get involved in sports at grassroots level and enjoy all of the associated benefits this involves – improving health, boosting confidence and self-belief and motivating them to achieve their ambitions.”

Up to 1500 competitors aged 12 to 15, along with coaches, administrators and delegates from more than 70 countries will head to Lanarkshire for the International Olympic Committee-recognised event in August 2011.

Wishaw Sports Centre and Fir Park will be among the venues used for the Games.

The £18,080 cost of manufacturing and erecting the signs was split 50/50 between North and South Lanarkshire councils, who are co-hosting the Games.

Check www.icg-lanarkshire2011.com for more details on the Lanarkshire 2011 International Children’s Games.