Flagg flies Olympic flag

The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr David Flagg was joined by local sportsman, Max Holloway to fly the flag at Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre to celebrate London becoming the next Olympic venue.

Max came 5th in the National Laser Class sailing event and is a hopeful for the London Olympics.

Christchurch was one of many places throughout the country raising the flag in celebration for the countdown to the London Olympics in 2012.

The event was of special interest to Christchurch as Highcliffe Sailing Club has been included in the Pre-Games Training Camp Guide. This should encourage international sailing teams to come to Christchurch to prepare for the sailing events being held in Weymouth.

Christchurch Sailing, a consortium of local authority, business, community and sailing interests, has been formed to achieve long-lasting legacy benefits from the games.

On raising the flag, the Mayor said: "It is an honour for me to be here to herald the start of London's time as the host city for the next Olympic Games in 2012.

"Christchurch Council looks forward to promoting the ideals of the games over the next four years with a mixture of sports, culture and heritage events."