Eye on the sky for the launch of Olympics

Organisers of the Saddleworth Village Olympics will be looking skywards at the launch of the event this weekend.

Because when a thousand balloons are released from Churchill playing fields, Greenfield, to signal the start of the programme, officials will be keeping a close watch on the weather.

Last year, rain and water-logged conditions affected some sports which celebrate a diverse range of activities for youngsters aged from seven to seventeen.

And this year, Ben Hilton, the Olympic committee chairman, is hoping for a record entry with more than 1,200 taking part in a stimulating programme which runs until Sunday, September 20.

He said: “Our team of enthusiastic organisers and marvellous entrants are looking forward to a great and thrilling time.

“It’s a fabulous event —with the children as real ambassadors. ”

But Mr Hilton, who has been chairman for the last nine years, hinted he would be standing down at the end of next year’s games.

“I have been involved with the Village Olympics for 17 years in all,” he said. “At the end of the games in 2010, I will be standing down, as my youngest teenager will no longer be eligible to take part.

“A number of other committee members have also decided to retire, some have been involved since the games began in 1985.

“But we cannot let this unique event finish and we really need someone who has young children and lots of energy to come forward to take on the role, admirably assisted by an excellent committee,” he added.

Saddleworth School is a base for a number of events, and he praised Oldham Sports Development, which provided professional coaches through the summer to train competing youngsters and volunteers to manage the games’ programme.

And, through the committee’s close relationship with Saddleworth Round Table, commemorative medals will be provided for all contestants together with medals for individuals or teams down to fourth place.

Many additional competitions are taking place this year with teams made up of young people and parents, who met during the games and have continued to enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

At the opening ceremony at 9am on Saturday, one of the competitors from Diggle will take the “Saddleworth Olympic Oath” on behalf of all competitors.