FELIXSTOWE: A couple who have been awarded volunteer roles at London 2012 games today told of their hopes that the Olympics will have a lasting legacy for youngsters in their home town.

Richard and Jayne Farnworth, of Swallow Close, Felixstowe, have been handed roles at next year’s games.

Richard, 57, is chairman of the Felixstowe Road Runners and he is hopeful that London 2012 will inspire a new generation of young people in Felixstowe to take up sport.

He said: “I have got some interest in athletics and hopefully a spin-off from the Olympics would be to get the kids out there enjoying sport.

“I think once they see it on TV they’ll want to come along to the clubs that are available.”

Tony Bush, Suffolk Sport’s business development manager, agreed it would be fantastic to see the legacy of the Games extend to Felixstowe and the rest of Suffolk.

He said: “We hope that all areas of Suffolk, including Felixstowe, maximise the benefit of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Suffolk Sport are working very hard to create a lasting legacy from the games for Suffolk.

“This includes increasing participation, increasing volunteers, improving coaching and helping sports clubs and local communities access funding to improve facilities.”

Mr Farnworth will be volunteering as a chauffeur and PA to one of the Olympic committee members, while his wife is due to be stewarding events at the ExCel Centre during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mr Farnworth said: “I’m really excited about it.

“They say you’ll have such an insight into how the Olympics works because you’ll be on the inside of it.

“I’m definitely looking forward to it – it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

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