Celebrating the county’s summer heroes

Gamesmakers and torchbearers were also invited to the ‘All the Heroes’ celebration organised by Warwickshire County Council to mark the district’s success in the London 2012 Games.

Two Leamington Olympians – archer Naomi Folkard and table tennis player Kelly Sibley - and Paralympians – Warwick wheelchair rugby player Mandip Sehmi and Leamington bronze medallist boccia player Nigel Murray, attended the event.

Kevin Finnan, the choreographer for the Paralympic Games opening ceremony from Leamington company Motionhouse, was one of the many special guests who came from across Warwickshire. Volunteers included the North Warwickshire Young Gamesmakers, Kenilworth Gamesmakers and athletics officials.

Warwickshire County Council leader Cllr Alan Farnell gave a speech praising Warwickshire’s local heroes for their efforts during the Olympic year.

He said: “The Olympics and Paralympics helped make 2012 a memorable year for the whole nation.

“We wanted to say a big thank you and recognise those who played their part, whether behind the scenes as volunteers, or as competitors, to showcase Britain at its very best.”

Dozens of local heroes carried the torch around the county.

Those who did not have commercial sponsorship had their torches sponsored by the county council as a legacy pledge to take them into their communities.

Many other individuals gave up their time to work as gamesmakers at the Olympic Park and other venues such as the City of Coventry Stadium.

There were also volunteers and people who also worked alongside Games organisers to ensure that Warwickshire played its part in making the 2012 Games a success.