Published at 11:10, Thursday, 09 August 2012

IT is difficult to remember when the country has been on such a high. The impact of the Olympics, over the past two weeks, has stunned us with the Team GB’s sheer heart-soaring success.

Across the nation, we have been stopped in our tracks by GB’s athletes, cried rivers of joy at the rowers and have been inspired by the stamina and drive of our cyclists.

So many times we have been gallant losers, accepting defeat with a brave face and a wry smile. But in the space of 13 days, we have been uplifted by the victories of Team GB who have found a place in our hearts which will be difficult to shift.

Our pride has been boosted, not just by the medals but by the gracious, decent, hard-working, disciplined and humble attitude of the British competitors.

From a variety of backgrounds, male and female, they are the people we should encourage our children to emulate.

The dream of Lord Coe, as he planned the Olympic bid, was its legacy.

Here in Copeland, we already have a sense of what good can be achieved when people decide to take up sport. Hundreds of our school children threw themselves in a variety of mini Olympics learning about competing, feeling the buzz of the endorphins and the joy of taking part.

After watching the London Games, let’s hope those youngsters continue to participate in whatever sport they enjoy, which can only enhance their future attitude to life.

Here at The Whitehaven News we are also keen to pass on news of see the positive effects of fundraisers who challenge themselves physically for the benefit of others. This week, for example, we feature 14-year-old Callum Fowler, born prematurely, who raised £750 for Bliss on a three-day cycle ride.

And we also give a mention to Olympic torch bearers Gary McKee and Darren Blanks, who have committed themselves to raising money for others.

Whether at the Olympic Games, or here in our back yard, we should celebrate these true heroes.

Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk