Hosting World Cup to leave lasting legacy (From Warrington Guardian)

Hosting World Cup to leave lasting legacy

in News

HOSTING World Cup matches in the town will leave a lasting legacy - not just in Warrington but across Cheshire.

The was the view from tournament organisers speaking on Thursday.

Clr Terry O’Neill, council leader, said he hoped to see the benefits of hosting the tournament for generations to come.

“It is not just Warrington, but throughout Cheshire.

“I believe the true Olympic legacy will not be Olympic champions - although that will be nice.

“But to have people playing sport and becoming fitter, that is what we have seen at Live Wire.

“And it will be the same with rugby league. It is an ideal opportunity for the game to keep growing.”

Joe Blott, current chairman of the organising committee, says fans will be able to enjoy a host of events in the lead up to the first game.

This will include a special town centre celebration for Samoa Independence Day in June.

“The tournament is about improving the health and wellbeing of the town - that is as imporatant as the sporting legacy.”

A special dance event is also being held before the games kick off.