Edge Hill chosen as Paralympic training camp

The London 2012 Organising Committee has announced the selection of Edge Hill University as a training camp for the 2012 Paralympic Games. The University will feature in a comprehensive list of UK-wide venues which will be home to Paralympians from all over the world during their preparations for the 2012 Games in London.

The facilities at Edge Hill will be made available to elite Paralympians training in three disciplines; archery, athletics and road cycling.

Paul Greenwood, Head of Sports and Leisure Facilities at Edge Hill University said: "Being included in the Pre-Games Training Camp Guide for Paralympic Sports is exciting news and something that we are very proud of. Our inclusion shows that Edge Hill takes disabled sport very seriously and makes every effort to accommodate all those who want to take part in sport, whatever their physical abilities. The recent award of the prestigious Inclusive Fitness Initiative mark recognises that our sports facilities and service is truly inclusive. I for one am looking forward to being able to watch athletes training at the highest level."

Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the London Organising Committee, said: "The facilities will really help overseas athletes and teams prepare well for London 2012. The assessment process we have conducted shows that there is a good spread of high-quality sporting facilities for athletes across the board. I hope that as many teams and athletes as possible take advantage of these facilities. Our vision is to use the Games to inspire change and change attitudes towards people with a disability. We look forward to welcoming Paralympic athletes to the UK in 2012."

Anne McGuire, Minister for Disabled People, commented: "I'm delighted for each of the facilities that are included in the Guide. We're looking forward to seeing elite athletes from around the world training here in advance of the Paralympic Games, raising the profile of the Games and engaging with local communities across the UK."

Peter Mearns, Executive Director of Marketing at the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), said: "The North West has the experience and facilities to deliver very successful world class sporting events and I am pleased to see an excellent number of North West training camps have been selected for inclusion.

"Following the successful hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2002 and four Paralympic World Cups since then, it is clear the region has the expertise required to host visitors and athletes across both Olympic and Paralympic sport.

"The 2012 Games have the potential to make a considerable impact in the North West and the NWDA will continue to work hard with partners to ensure the region capitalises upon this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

For more information and to see a full list of facilities, visit http://www.london2012.com/news.