Pulling together to make International Children’s Games a winner

Dec 2 2009 by Wendy Scott, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

THE Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser has thrown its weight behind the Lanarkshire 2011 International Children’s Games.

Bill Steven, managing director of Scottish & Universal Newspapers, gave the Games his backing at Fir Park stadium, one of the official venues.

He was joined by councillors Michael McCann and Jim Smith, joint chairs of the Lanarkshire 2011 Organising Committee, and Motherwell Football Club general manager Leeann Dempster.

The Lanarkshire 2011 Games – an International Olympic Committee-recognised event – will attract about 2000 young athletes, coaches and officials from 50 countries in what will be the largest international event ever held in Lanarkshire.

Bill Steven said: “The Games is a great opportunity for Scottish & Universal Newspapers to get involved in such a prestigious event. In fact, we’ve been involved since the beginning when Lanarkshire submitted its bid to host the 2011 Games.

“This is a great challenge for us – and a vehicle for the Games – to get the message out to as many young people as possible right across Scotland.

“I hope the Games bring a real good buzz to Lanarkshire from both an activity and commercial point of view. As well as people getting a good buzz and having a good time, hopefully the Games will bring good business to the area.”

Councillor Jim Smith said: “Having Scottish & Universal Newspapers supporting Lanarkshire 2011 as a media partner is a huge boost to all involved with the Games. Our partnership will, without a doubt, give the profile of the Games a huge boost and will hopefully act as a catalyst to more young people getting involved in sport at all levels.”

Councillor McCann added: “Both councils are determined to host an event showcasing Lanarkshire to the world and leaving a lasting sporting legacy for young people throughout the area.

“I’m confident Lanarkshire 2011 will 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.”

Lanarkshire 2011 gives the area the opportunity to organise cultural programmes and ensure the Games are a truly community-led experience. This vision will give people – young and old – the prospect of becoming part of the biggest international event ever held in Lanarkshire.

Further details on the Lanarkshire 2011 International Children’s Games can be found at: www.icg-lanarkshire2011.com