Olympic celebrations in Swindon

With the Olympics getting underway, Wharf Green in Swindon is the place to be with all the action shown live on the Big Screen and an array of free sporting festivities for everyone to come and try.

Some different 20 activities will be on offer between  July 28 and August 12 - and cycling will take centre stage on Saturday, August 11.

Everyone is invited to come and watch the cross country mountain biking race and there will be plenty of opportunities to give cycling a whirl in so many different ways. Local cyclists are set to compete in static bike races and inspire others to have a go. There will also be a mountain bike obstacle course and the chance to learn how to ride a unicycle. Four-wheel mountain bikes for disabled riders will be on display and available to try.

Amanda Nelson discovered her love of cycling when she developed a condition which left her unable to walk long distances.

She said: ''I have a condition, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), which affects my left leg and means I need crutches or a mobility scooter for longer distances. I've had it for two years and for much of that time have been a bit of a lost soul because I was previously very sporty. That all changed a few months ago when a charity called Charlotte's Tandems lent me a bike.

''It has totally transformed my life and changed the way I view my disability. I now have a focus and goal and I'm already planning charity cycles to raise money for this little-known condition. The Paralympics are another great opportunity to raise awareness of cycling as a sport for everyone. I'm particularly rooting for Danielle Brown, who also suffers from CRPS - it would be great to see her come away with Gold.''

All activities at Wharf Green run from 11am until 3pm and everyone is welcome.

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Cllr Garry Perkins, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Culture at Swindon Borough Council, said: ''After such fantastic Torch Relay celebrations in Swindon, the stage is now set for the Games in Swindon. The Big Screen is the perfect place to come and watch the action unfold and also discover a wide range of sports. Basketball, climbing, golf, rugby, swimming, trampoline and of course cycling are just a few of the activities which people can come and try, so I encourage everyone to enter the spirit and discover the fun on offer.''