Culture Secretary Highlights Impact of Team GB Beyond Medals at Homecoming Event

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the profound influence of Team GB athletes during a homecoming celebration at the AO Arena in Manchester, following the Paris Olympics. Speaking at the National Lottery’s Team GB Homecoming event, Nandy remarked that the legacy of these athletes extends beyond their medal achievements, stating that they have inspired children to believe in their potential to achieve extraordinary things. The event saw the attendance of past Olympic medalists, including Anita Lonsbrough, Tessa Sanderson, and Dame Denise Lewis, who welcomed this year’s Olympians. Among the attendees were rowing gold medalists Georgina Brayshaw, Hannah Scott, Lola Anderson, and Lauren Henry, who mingled with celebrities such as Rag’n’Bone Man and Jess Glynne, adding a star-studded flair to the occasion. Nandy highlighted the importance of accessibility in sports, noting that many aspiring athletes, like Keely Hodgkinsons, lack the necessary facilities and opportunities. She stressed the government's commitment to investing in grassroots sports to ensure that all children have the chance to pursue their dreams, not just those who have access to elite training environments. In her closing remarks, Nandy reiterated that while the medal tally is commendable, the true magic lies in the inspiration and hope these athletes instill in young people. She called for a collective effort to transform dreams into actionable plans, ensuring that future generations can aspire to greatness in sports and beyond.