Ringing endorsement for Olympics from Rennie
Graham Gibson • Published 2 Dec 2011 08:25
5 Comments
FORMER Dunfermline and West Fife MP Willie Rennie has given the 2012 Olympic games a ringing endorsement by claiming he would display the event's iconic symbol on his Kelty roof.
The leader of the Scottish Lib Dems has shot back at critics who believe that Scotland has nothing to gain from the event and said he was prepared to have the Olympic rings displayed on the roof of his Kelty bungalow.
The keen sportsman, who is a member of Carnegie Harriers and competed in the Kelty Coal Race, urged the country to embrace a massive event which is being held on Scotland's doorstep.
He said, "I was a bit frustrated by the whole negative and parochial response to the suggestion that the rings should go on the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle.
"Although I don't favour them going there I just thought it was being used as an opportunity by those who don't value the Olympics to decry them for being in London and not in Scotland, claiming it has nothing to do with us.
"I was hoping to symbolise the passion that all Scots should have for the event.
"The Olympics is a fantastic tournament. There are lots of things to enjoy whether watching on TV or going down to some events."
Mr Rennie is particularly looking forward to seeing a variety of sports that are not often seen on mainstream television, such as Greco-Roman wrestling.
He continued, "The Olympics also creates enthusiasm amongst young people to take up a wide variety of sports.
"It's right on our doorstep and we've never had it so close since 1948 so we should be embracing it rather than decrying it."
As well as the sporting development aspect to the Games Mr Rennie believes there is also a great opportunity for tourism and economic benefits.
"The tourism and economic benefits will be ripe for reaping as long as we are ready to capitalise on it," he said.
"There's tourism opportunities with people who might come up to Scotland before or after they go to the Olympics.
"Then there is the displacement of people who might normally go to London but don't because it's so busy and decide to come to Scotland.
"I think we should focus on the positive aspects of the Olympics rather than a minority who have expressed disgust at the event."
Are you looking forward to next year's Olympics? Have your say by commenting on this story below.
Have your say. Post a comment on this article.
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jollymolly
93 posts
Dec 4, 12:05
Report commentTypical Lib Dem ....Go on then Rennie display the event's iconic symbol on your roof.and with xmas lights as well. we will pay for your electric bill don't we anyway...
(mp's expenses)
I'm sure all the Kelty residents are behind you.
Grow up man and Put a sock in it...
Recommend?
Yes 26
No 1
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NotHappyJan
192 posts
Dec 4, 20:22
Report commentThis guy needs to jump into bed with triskil, oops sorry whatever monica he is using now. Never heard so much rubbish in all my days!! Just like babies falling from the sky!
Recommend? Yes 8
No 7
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cameronsdemise
33 posts
Dec 5, 06:28
Report commentAye Rennie , Olympic rings on your roof in kelty ?? Is thaT SO YOUR westmidden BOSSES CAN SEE HOW MANY HOOPS YOU'LL JUMP THROUGH TO LET THEM SEE WHOSE SIDE YOUR ON 'COS YOU'RE SURE AS SHECHT AIN'T ON SCOTLANDS SIDE !!!!
Recommend? Yes 12
No 1
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DannyAtkins
33 posts
Dec 6, 20:10
Report commentWhat have the Muppets and Wullie Rennie got in common........?
Recommend? Yes 8
No 1
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beaker
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Dec 8, 19:33
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