Jesse calls for Olympic screen for Herefordshire

Herefordshire MP Jesse Norman has called on the 2012 Olympics organisers to install a large public screen in Hereford city to show the Olympic and Paralympic Games, forming a focal point for local celebrations.

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games is working with the BBC to erect “Live Sites” across the UK to show the latest action and news from the London Games this Summer. There are already plans to erect the screens in public areas of 22 cities outside London including Bristol, Norwich and Plymouth. The screens are free to watch and allow communities to gather together to watch major events.

In a letter to the Organising Committee, which was also sent to the Jeremy Hunt, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Mr Norman asked that a “Live Site” screen be built in Hereford to help local people to be part of the Games.

“Many Herefordians feel that the Olympics are a long way from Hereford,” said Jesse, “but I am determined that Herefordshire should have its fair share of the celebrations. The Games will be a great moment of national pride, but they can also be part of a great celebration for Herefordshire, and they’re a fantastic opportunity to encourage local young people into sport.”

“That’s why I campaigned successfully last year for the Olympic Torch to visit Hereford and that’s why I am lobbying LOCOG to erect a big screen here this summer. Our county is home to the UK Blind Football team: we’re doing our bit to support the Olympics, and it’s important that LOCOG does its bit to support Herefordshire.”

| Letter to London 2012 Live Sites Team