It's only about two years to the Summer Olympics and Paralympics in 2012. It's an excellent opportunity to showcase the UK to athletes, spectators, visitors and a world-wide television and on-line audience.
The reason I was keen on the Games being held in the UK was that we could use their power to inspire lasting change here. But I also want to make sure that the North East gets its fair share - more if possible - of the action.
So far so good. Twenty sporting facilities in the region met the standard as possible official Pre-Games Training Camps for foreign teams. Twenty firms in the North East have won 2012-related contracts and many more have won sub-contracts. One North East is doing its bit to encourage local businesses to win much needed work.
Large and small companies from all sectors of industry will be needed to deliver the London 2012 Games and its associated legacy. It is a chance for businesses to find new trading partners, enter new markets and compete for lucrative contracts.
The 2012 Games will offer an estimated 75,000 individual large and small tendering opportunities from approximately 7,000 contracts - all with a projected combined spend of over £6.5 billion.
Interested businesses should contact Business Link on 0845 600 9006 for tailored advice on 2012 related opportunities. Sign up at www.competefor.com
Subscribe to the e-bulletin newsletter from One North East by contacting northeast@london2012.com for details of events that could help your company.
But it's not all about business. Hundreds of schools and colleges across the region are taking part in the London 2012 education programme, Get Set. At least one school has visited the Olympic Park site where they met the triple jumper Jonathan Edwards. I would hope that more would do the same. The aim is to boost participation in sport and active recreation and leave a lasting legacy of greater fitness
Get Set will give children and young people across the UK the chance to learn about Olympic and Paralympic Values and play their part in the 2012 Games. Its interactive website is at www.london2012.com/getset
I'll come back to this theme again but whether you run a business or are a pupil, parent or teacher, please take a look at how the Olympic Games could benefit you.
Newcastle Chronicle and Journal
| Promoted by Paul Foy on behalf of Dave Anderson, both of St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT |