I don’t know about you but I’m still catching my breath after a fantastic weekend in Sandwell. What a wonderful time it was for so many people.
One big highlight, of course, was the arrival of the Olympic Torch in the borough on Saturday and its passage through Oldbury, West Brom andSmethwick.
I was proud of the massive turn-out (and enthusiasm) of local people who lined the streets to see it (an estimated 40,000 in all!) – and proud, too, of all the work that the council and its partners put into preparing for our ‘moment to shine’. It paid off big time as we all enjoyed a momentous day.
I personally was there to witness the Smethwick leg of the route – and the place was buzzing. I have to say I haven’t seen as many people on the High Street since the Queen’s Silver Jubilee over 30 years ago.
The atmosphere was incredible as young and old joined in, creating a real sense of excitement.
I shouldn’t forget, either, Sandwell residents’ contribution to actually carrying the torch, whether here in the borough or further afield. We can all be truly proud of them.
The Torch’s presence in Smethwick helped make the Birmingham and Sandwell Mela in Victoria Park – including a new world record for bhangra and giddha dancing as part of the Lawk Naach Cultural Olympiad programme — even more of a success.
I was there, too, and it was great to see so many people coming together and enjoying themselves.
Saturday was a particularly busy day for me as I was also at the Armed Forces Day in Oldbury, which I found very moving.
I’m aware, too, that there were lots of other things going on over the weekend, all of which contributed to making Sandwell the place to be.
It’s times like that show just how great Sandwell is. My thanks to all who helped.
