University project shortlisted for Times Higher Education award

The University of Exeter is working with 10 other universities and cultural partners in the south-west to inspire young people to volunteer, try new sports and be creative. Relays wants to bring together universities, communities and business and connect people locally with the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Half way through the project, more than 45,000 young people have taken part in activities, while 125 events and festivals have been held, attracting over 101,500 visitors from across the region and beyond. 1780 volunteers have given up their time and expertise to make it all happen and more than 600 businesses have attended Relays organised events to hear about the opportunities that London 2012 is offering.

Leanne Dingle, Project Manager for Relays, said ‘We are delighted that the inspirational work that Relays and the team have carried out is being recognised. This project is an example of what can be achieved when our universities and partners, students and volunteers and the enthusiasm and talent of young people in the South West come together. As well as traditional sporting activities, graffiti art, dance, urban youth sports and culture have been celebrated. There may not be an obvious link to the 2012 Games, but these activities are true to the spirit of London 2012’s Inspire programme where everyone is invited to take part and join in.’

Seb Coe, Chair, London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games said: “Relays is encouraging young people to fulfil their potential. I am proud that, with the help of such partners, we are delivering on our vision to use the power of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to boost participation in the arts and youth sport across the South West.”

Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Exeter Professor Neil Armstrong, who is the Chair of the Relays Steering Group, said: “I became involved as I want to see more young people taking part in sport. Not everyone can be an elite athlete, but we can all take more exercise and enjoy the benefits of health and fitness as well as the friendship and fun that sport can give.”

Relays is funded by Legacy Trust UK, an independent charity that has been set up to help build a lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the 2012 Olympic Games and HEFCE (The Higher Education Funding Council for England).

The winners of the Times Higher Education Awards 2010 will be announced at a ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, on Thursday 25 November.