Lighting way for Olympics

OLDHAM will be lighting the way to London 2012 when the Olympic Torch passes through the borough.

The iconic symbol of the Games will travel through the town on Sunday, June 24, on a route still under discussion.

It will pass through several areas of Greater Manchester, including Ashton, before reaching Oldham and then head into West Yorkshire on its epic journey around the country.

Oldham Council and Failsworth School pupils embraced the announcement yesterday.

Councillor Hugh McDonald, cabinet member for children, young people, families, leisure and culture, was delighted that Oldham was among the areas chosen to host the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay.

He said: “The event will give the town a real boost and I’m sure hundreds of people will come out to see the relay when it arrives in the borough.

“Through our One Future campaign the borough is already embracing London 2012 as an opportunity to inspire and achieve and I’m sure the Olympics will have a positive impact on our communities.”

Failsworth School was designated a Sports College in 2000 and offers tremendous opportunities for participation and development in sport and other extra curricular activity.

The Olympic Flame will be carried by “Torchbearers” during the relay.