Golden boy Craig’s an inspiration

GYMNAST Craig Heap shows off his medals with (from left) Paul Clark (Counthill School Sports Partnership); Neil Consterdine (Oldham Council’s head of integrated youth) Lorna Philip; Dave NcEntee (Hathershaw assistant deputy head teacher); and Councillor Kay Knox (cabinet member for children, young people and families).

COMMONWEALTH Games double gold medallist Craig Heap was in Oldham to help inspire the next generation of sporting stars.

The Burnley gymnast opened the second annual Oldham School PE and Sports conference at Hotel Smokies Park, Bardsley. The aim was to improve standards and participation in sport in the run up to 2012 London Olympics and beyond.

Around 150 people attended and the event was closed by Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain star Kevin Sinfield from Oldham who showed off the Rugby League Challenge Cup.

Lorna Philip, assistant head teacher at Hathershaw College of Technology and sport, organised the conference.

She said: “PE teachers in schools are charged with ensuring that the legacy of the Olympics are used to inspire the nation.”