Our People in the Games

Colchester Borough Council Staff and Mayoress Elect Involved in the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Preparations are now well underway in Colchester for London 2012 Olympic-related projects, such as the Olympic Torch Relay. For some local people the preparations are personal too, as they undertake very exciting involvement in and around the Games.

Amanda Arnold, Colchester’s very own Mayoress Elect, has been selected to take part in both the Opening Ceremony and the Closing Ceremony for the Olympic Games.

Speaking of her selection to be in both ceremonies Mrs Arnold said "Having witnessed the Olympic venues take shape from the train, I really wanted to see inside and be part of the excitement but I couldn't get tickets. Then I discovered there were auditions for the Ceremonies and I passed! I'm used to performing in choirs or bands, or even the Mercury Theatre Community Acting Company, but not with the world-wide audience we will have at the Olympics! It's quite scary but will be an amazing experience."

Tracy McGill is a Senior Community Sport Officer at Leisure World Highwoods. Tracy has been selected to be one of Colchester’s Torchbearers and will be carrying the Olympic Flame through our streets on Friday 6th July.

Tracy secured her place by applying through the Coca Cola Future Flames programme. Tracy said “I am so proud and honoured to be able to carry the torch and I can’t wait to share the day with my friends and family. It’s a once-in-a- lifetime opportunity to see the Olympic Flame and to hear the people of Colchester cheering us Torchbearers along will make the day even more special.”

The Olympic Torch Relay comes to Colchester at 7.28am on Friday 6th July. Full details on the route, travel advice and information about other activities to enjoy on the day can be found at www.colchester.gov.uk/torch