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Olympic competition for Sandwell schools

Published on 18th May 2012

The finishing line is in sight for Sandwell students looking to take part in an Olympic competition.

On their marks...Daley Thompson, Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Joyce Underhill, and Chief Executive of BT Retail Gavin Patterson, joined school children from Sandwell at the launch of competition in February.Youngsters across the borough have been challenged by Daley Thompson to create a picture which shows what the Olympics means to them.

The Olympic hero launched the competition during the official opening of the BT building at Providence Place at the beginning of February.

Three pairs of tickets to the London 2012 Paralympic Games in September are the coveted prize for the winning students, donated by BT which is an official sponsor of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Students have until 12 June to get their entries in, which will be displayed on 30 June when the Olympic Torch passes through Oldbury, West Bromwich and Smethwick.

Three winners will be chosen - one from each category - primary, secondary and special schools.

Leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Darren Cooper said: "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for school children in Sandwell to be part of the Olympics and we can't wait to see the artwork they produce.

"We're doing lots to celebrate the Olympic Torch passing through Sandwell on June 30 and the artwork will add to the occasion."

Ian Binks, BT's regional manager for Sandwell and the West Midlands, said: "We're keen for the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics to have a positive impact on communities around the UK, and this art competition is one of many initiatives aimed at bringing the excitement of the Games to the region."

Winning entries will be displayed at the torch event and at the BT building in the following weeks.

All entries should be submitted by 12 June to Ian Coward, Transform Sandwell, 1 Providence Place, West Bromwich, B70 1SZ.

You can find out more about how Sandwell is celebrating the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, including the Olympic Torch coming to Sandwell on 30 June, at the Sandwell for 2012 website and our London 2012 web page.