12:07PM, Wed Jun 13, 2012

South Tyneside Primary School Embrace Olympic Spirit

By Philippa Goymer Location: South Tyneside

Children at a South Tyneside primary school have been embracing the Olympic spirit ahead of this weekend’s torch relay throughout Tyne and Wear.

More than 80 pupils aged 5-11 from Marine Park Primary School in South Shields created a mass showcase of national flags from countries taking part in the 2012 London Games.

The showcase is timely in the run up to South Tyneside welcoming the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay to the region this Saturday.

Joining in the flag waving fun was South Shields-born torch bearer Nicholas Ridgeon.

Nicholas works for England athletics as the Club and Coach support officer for Cumbria and Tyne and Wear.

Nicholas was nominated to be a torch bearer by his girlfriend Barbara for his voluntary work in sport, particularly a trip to Zambia in 2010.

Nicholas said: “I admire the inclusivity of the games.

“I think it breaks down borders as we can all enjoy the Paralympic and Olympic Games as one world and one community celebrating sport together.”

Marine Park Primary School will also be taking part in the official Olympic Torch Relay celebrations, when a group of young people get involved in a junior relay event to coincide with the visit.

Head Teacher of Marine Park Primary School, Alison Burden, said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the young people to say they’ve taken part in the Olympic celebrations.

“The Olympic Torch Relay event is a great way for the children to meet people from other countries and learn about diverse cultures from around the world and appreciate the coming together of diverse nations.”

Marine Park Primary is recognised as a thriving, multi-cultural environment with over thirteen languages being spoken throughout the school.

The 2012 Olympic Games promise to make a positive impact on the region, as the sporting and social legacy looks to be an inspirational benchmark for future generations to come.

South Tyneside Council have organised a series of events including various sporting activities on The Leas from 8.30am to 10.30am, followed by a Seaside Funday from 11am until late.

Councillor Alan Kerr, Deputy Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “The 2012 Olympic Games is a unique way of bringing the world to our doorstep and a chance for people of all ages to experience the global community.

“It’s also a great opportunity for South Tyneside to build upon its status as an international travel and business destination.

For more information including a map of the Olympic Torch Relay route and full event listings please visit www.southtyneside.info/article/15581/Lets-celebrate-2012 or call 0191 455 7411.