It was a very exciting day for Swindon College on Wednesday 23rd May as the Olympic torch paraded through the North Star campus and staff and students were there to greet it.

As a lunch stop for the torchbearer and the convoy, Swindon College held a mini Olympic Games event to celebrate the fact that the torch was coming onto the site. The huge event was planned around the once in the lifetime opportunity which both staff and students were looking forward to, which was apparent by the buzzing atmosphere.

Local primary and secondary schools in Swindon gathered at the College in the blazing sunshine for the chance to compete in various team sports including football and netball, which were held at the Oasis Leisure Centre.

After they competed in their activities they rested for lunch, where the college provided a BBQ and drinks.

While waiting for the appearance of the torch, staff and students were excitable waving Union Jack flags and joining in the Mexican wave around the five viewing points of the College campus.

The torch arrived at North Star at approximately 2.30pm and torchbearer Alistair Hubbard waved to the eager crowd. The flame of the torch was then passed onto the lantern when Alistair concluded his run and was greeted by his family. The convoy stopped for lunch in the main hall at Swindon College for 45 minutes.

Guest star, commonwealth 400m athlete and GB hopeful, Lesley Owusu gave a heart-warming, inspirational speech to the crowd before Sam Bramfitt, Curriculum Area Manager for Sports, Public Services, Travel & Tourism, called out the winners of the young competitors, while Lesley awarded them with their medals.

The day concluded after the presentation of the schools receiving their bronze, silver or gold medals and then standing on a podium to show their position.

Andrew Miller, Principal and Chief Executive said:
'It’s been a great day, the atmosphere has been fantastic. Having local schools and so many people here to celebrate the arrival of the torch with us has been brilliant. This is the first time I’ve seen the torch and it was really quite something.'

To see the photo gallery from the day, click here.

Swindon College, being part of the Get Set for 2012 network, thoroughly enjoyed the event and will continue to celebrate the Olympic Games.

For more information about Lesley Owusu please go to: www.SportingChampions.org.uk.