Local Olympic and Paralympic Athletes Honored with Bus Tour

Local Olympic and Paralympic athletes marked their achievements with an open-top bus tour that traveled through Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. The tour transported the five athletes to three leisure centres located in Dorset: Two Riversmeet in Christchurch, Kings Park in Bournemouth, and Rossmore in Poole. Hundreds of spectators gathered to wave and cheer, with many also visiting the three leisure centres to capture photographs and obtain autographs from the athletes. Leo McCrea, a Paralympic swimming gold medallist who was raised in Poole, commented that it was “amazing to see everyone coming out to support us”. Izzy Songhurst, a participant in the trampoline event, stated: “I don’t think I was expecting that many people to turn up, so it was just amazing to see so many people showing their support.” Bryony Page, also a trampolinist, expressed her hope that the tour would serve as an inspiration for young athletes. Jack Eyers, a Paralympic canoe silver medallist, further remarked: “It’s fantastic. What a turnout and really just massively appreciate all the support and the recognition of what we’ve achieved out in Paris.” Matt Aldridge, the fifth individual on the tour who secured a bronze medal in rowing, commented: “I spent a lot of time here at Two Riversmeet leisure centre as a little kid and it’s amazing to sort of see people come out and support you and just give back to the community a bit.” He continued: “Even if one kid we’re talking too today picks up a sport then you know that’s all we can ask for.” For updates, BBC Dorset can be followed on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Instagram. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.