MP: Let’s involve pier in opening of 2012 Games (From Echo)

MP: Let’s involve pier in opening of 2012 Games

5:00pm Tuesday 1st June 2010 in News

SOUTHEND’s most famous landmark should be used in the opening and closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics, MP David Amess has said.

Mr Amess, Tory MP for Southend West, raised the possibility of the pier playing a role in the ceremonies, which can attract tens of millions of viewers worldwide.

He spoke during an adjournment debate in the House of Commons, which gives backbench MPs the chance to speak out on issues.

Mr Amess said: “I had the privilege to chair the Committee that considered the Olympic Games Bill and I am keen that Southend should be involved.

“At Hadleigh, we will have the biking event and there is a training opportunity for divers and swimmers at Garon Park.

“But I am excited by the prospect of Southend Pier being involved in the opening and closing ceremonies.

“I understand that we are not going to compete with the drummers in Beijing and that we will have a number of opportunities for celebration. I hope Southend will be involved in that.”

Peggie Dowie, from the Southend Pier Museum, described the opportunity as wonderful. She said: “It would be wonderful. We have the longest pleasure pier in the world, so why not?

“I hope the council can rise to this. Surely there would be central funding it could tap into to make some real improvements to the pier?

“Ideas are endless, but a ceremony could involve the whole pier, and using the river, boats and links with jetties and quays the length of the Thames.”

Mr Amess’s speech was part of an appeal for more funds for Southend to help improve transport, funding to stabilise the cliffs and a plea for help to secure jobs at risk in the borough, particularly at Revenue and Customs in Victoria Avenue.